Healthy Aging—More Than Just Living Longer
Did you know that adults aged 65 and older are expected to comprise nearly one-quarter of the U.S. population by 2050? Thanks to advances in medicine and public health, we’re living longer than ever. But how can we ensure that increased longevity is paired with a high quality of life?
Aging often brings changes and challenges—such as health deterioration, loss of independence and loneliness. According to the University of Michigan’s National Poll on Healthy Aging, one in three adults aged 50-80 reported feeling isolated in 2023, up from one in four in 2018. In honor of Healthy Aging Month, we’re exploring the role community plays in improving quality of life as we age, the policies shaping healthy aging initiatives and where you can plug in locally. At CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield (CareFirst), we embrace Healthy Aging Month as a time to encourage community engagement alongside maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly and keeping up with preventive care.
Healthy aging is linked to embracing a lifestyle of connection, learning and purpose. Studies show that community-based interactions can reduce depression and anxiety, improve physical functioning and sleep quality, and increase social participation. Attending a yoga class, planting a community garden or joining a book club are just a few small steps we can take to invest in fulfillment, wellness and resilience as we age.
From Government to Grassroots: How to Get Involved
Federal and state policymakers continue to seek ways to improve the lives of older Americans. First established in 1961, the Senate Special Committee on Aging evaluates national trends and provides recommendations to Congress on issues affecting older adults and their families.
In addition to supporting the creation of the Medicare and Medicaid programs, the Committee championed the Older Americans Act (OAA)—a foundational law that authorizes a wide range of programs to help older adults live with dignity. The OAA created a national network of 56 state agencies on aging, 618 area agencies on aging and nearly 20,000 service providers. It also funds community service employment for low-income older adults and supports training, research and demonstration activities related to aging.
Partnerships between national and state governments are essential to ensuring resources reach those most in need. Here are a few standout local initiatives fostering community and belonging:
- Washington, D.C.: The District’s Department of Parks and Recreations launched Growing Food, Growing Community, an intergenerational gardening project where residents of all ages and abilities grow fruits and vegetables.
- Maryland: In 2024, Governor Moore signed an Executive Order mandating the development of Longevity Ready Maryland (LRM)—a 10-year multisector plan to address the challenges and opportunities of an aging society. The plan includes The Supportive Communities Program, which advocates for policy changes, allocates resources for transportation, housing and social activities and engages communities in planning age-friendly initiatives.
- Northern Virginia: Fairfax County’s Neighborhood and Community Services created the Virtual Center for Active Adults, which enriches the lives of older adults and adults with disabilities while combatting isolation. The Center offers online classes, book clubs and workshops—perfect for staying engaged from home.
CareFirst’s Commitment to Healthy Aging
As a not-for-profit healthcare company, CareFirst is committed to educating and engaging with seniors in the communities we serve across D.C., Maryland and Northern Virginia.
Throughout the year, we host community events for seniors—from our Medicare Made Simple series to the inaugural Sneaker Ball. In Baltimore, we recently held Celebrating Seniors: Health and Wellness Extravaganza—a fun-filled day featuring health screenings, food and interactive sessions on digital literacy and chronic disease management.
For upcoming events, visit CareFirst’s community engagement event page.
CareFirst also supports policies that promote healthy aging. For example, the SENIOR Act (Social Engagement and Network Initiatives for Older Relief Act), introduced in February 2025, aims to combat chronic loneliness by supporting community integration. If passed, the Act would expand OAA grants and direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to report on the impacts of loneliness and propose solutions.
Call to Action
Longevity without connection is surviving. Longevity with community is thriving.
While public and private entities can develop programs and policies that encourage engagement, healthy aging is ultimately about people investing time and care in their local communities. This Healthy Aging Month, we encourage you to connect, volunteer or advocate for programs that keep our communities strong.
To learn more about programs and resources for older adults in your area, click for D.C., Maryland and Virginia.