Women’s health and aging

Everyone gets older, but we don’t all age in the same way. If you’re a woman, aging presents unique challenges. Understanding these challenges and addressing them proactively can lead to a healthier, more fulfilling life. At CenterWell Pharmacy®, we’re dedicated to supporting senior women in their wellness journeys through expert care and timely, secure medication delivery.

How is aging different for women?

Because women often live longer than men,¹ they may face specific health challenges from hormonal changes to heart disease. Additionally, women are more likely to experience mental health issues like depression and anxiety as they age.¹ Recognizing these issues is crucial—so be on the lookout for:

• Osteoporosis: Senior women face an increased risk of bone fractures due to decreased bone density.
• Menopause: Menopause causes hormonal changes that can affect comfort as well as mental health. This is one of the reasons senior women often struggle more with anxiety and depression.²
• Heart disease: This is the leading cause of death among women, in part because it can look different than in men. Most heart disease research has focused on men instead of women, and women (especially Black women) experience higher blood pressure.¹
• Breast cancer: As women age, they face an increased risk of breast cancer—which means a need for more regular self-checks and screenings that can help prevent breast cancer before it starts.
• Mental health issues: Senior women may struggle more with depression and anxiety. This may happen in part because they face daily pressures—such as being more likely to be caregivers, receiving less pay or having more trouble finding healthcare.¹
• Chronic conditions: Senior women are more likely to be affected by diabetes, hypertension and arthritis,³ which can make other health issues more challenging too.

How to stay healthy

Keeping up a healthy lifestyle means making good habits into daily routines. Setting realistic goals, seeking support from healthcare providers and other people you trust and staying informed can help you stay well. Here are some tips for women looking to balance their lifestyle choices:

Eat a nutritious diet. Foods rich in calcium, vitamin D and antioxidants support bone health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Incorporate a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats into your meals.⁴

Try vitamins and supplements. Over-the-counter (OTC) supplements can help fill nutritional gaps. Consult with a pharmacist to make sure you’re taking the right supplements and they don’t interact with your prescription medictations.

See your doctor regularly. Regular checkups can catch many health issues early. Your doctor can keep an eye on any issues, figure out a treatment plan and refer you for important tests and screenings. We recommend following a checklist for your visits.

Get your essential tests and screenings. Bone density scans can detect osteoporosis, mammograms can catch breast cancer, and cholesterol and blood pressure levels are essential to monitor heart health. 

Get plenty of exercise. Doing regular physical activity strengthens bones, improves heart health and boosts mental well-being.³ Try activities like walking, yoga, stretching and strength training.

Don’t neglect your mind. Mental health is just as important as physical health. Stay socially active, try new hobbies and classes⁴ and seek support if needed to manage stress, anxiety, or depression.

Signs you’re aging well

• You can move freely and perform daily tasks with ease.
• Your moods are balanced (or manageable) and you can handle everyday stress.
• You spend plenty of time with family or friends and participate in your community.
• Your memory is sharp and you’re able to solve day-to-day problems.
• You feel like you’re in control of your personal and health-related decisions.

Beware of red flags such as chronic pain, loneliness, mood swings and lapsed memory. If you experience any of these, talk to your doctor—or find a doctor today.* Addressing these issues early is key.

How CenterWell Pharmacy can help

No matter your health goals, we’re committed to supporting you. Our team of top pharmacists and pharmacy technicians can help you understand your treatment and manage your medications. They also check every order for accuracy and safety.

Health emergencies can happen anytime. Our 24/7 support gives you access to professional assistance whenever you need it, providing peace of mind and timely solutions.

We also make filling your prescriptions simple and convenient. Our user-friendly website and mobile app lets you fill prescriptions anywhere, anytime—ensuring your never run out of the meds you need. 

Stay healthy with CenterWell Pharmacy

Experience the difference that personalized, expert care can make in your women’s health journey. Fill your prescription with us today and take the first step towards a healthier, happier life. For more information on managing your health and wellness, chat with us.

Sources:

1. “Get the Facts on Women and Aging,” National Council on Aging, last accessed Jan. 28, 2025.
2. “Senior Women,” Anxiety & Depression Association of America, last accessed Jan. 28, 2025. 
3. “The Top 10 Most Chronic Conditions in Older Adults,” National Council on Aging, last accessed Jan. 28, 2025.
4. “Aging: what to expect,” Mayo Clinic, last accessed Jan. 28, 2025.

* CenterWell Senior Primary Care® providers may not be available in all areas. Other primary care providers may be available in your insurance network.

Disclaimer: Humana Inc. and its subsidiaries are committed to keeping humans in the loop. We used artificial intelligence (AI) to help write this. You should speak with a healthcare professional for your health needs, as this article is for informational purposes only.