Health and Wealth: The Importance for Lifestyle Medicine

• Published in: American journal of lifestyle medicine Vol. 15; no. 4; pp. 407 - 412
• Main Authors: Burton, Wayne N., Schultz, Alyssa, Edington, Dee W.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Los Angeles, CA SAGE Publications 01.07.2021
• Subjects: Business of Lifestyle Medicine; wealth; health; health risks; retirement; lifestyle
• ISSN: 1559-8276; 1559-8284
• DOI: 10.1177/15598276211005348

Many people spend years dreaming about their retirement. Unfortunately, today’s workers will likely work longer, suffer greater economic uncertainty, and might have poorer health status compared with retirees in previous generations. Preserving good health during the working years is associated with a more consistent employment record, greater financial resources, and reduced risk of disease. Making smart financial decisions as a younger adult also translates to improved finances in retirement. While many people are aware of these relationships, many continue to make poor health choices. Employers and lifestyle medicine professionals can both work to improve financial well-being in retirement. Employers can offer effective worksite financial wellness programs and promote participation in retirement savings programs. Physicians and other health providers can foster healthy behaviors, encourage preventive services compliance, and help adults foster overall financial and health well-being. Adopting a healthy lifestyle as early as possible would increase the likelihood that today’s workers will enjoy financial security in retirement.