By Lupina Fry, Wellness Nurse

According to the Pew Research Center, men outnumber women globally. In the United States, the ratio of men to women at birth is nearly one to one, but females outnumber males at a rate of 97.25 males for every 100 females. At Trinity Woods, the ratio of women to men is nearly two to one. The average life expectancy for men is approximately 75 years, while for women, it exceeds 80 years.

The reason men tend to have shorter lifespans than women are not entirely clear. Research suggests one possible reason could be that men generally do not take care of themselves as well as women do. Surveys indicate that women are significantly more likely than men to have regular healthcare checkups and to follow up with their providers. Men are also more inclined to engage in risky behaviors, such as smoking and drinking heavily, and may manage stress less effectively.

Don’t be disheartened…experts also agree that men can enhance their chances of leading healthier, longer lives by adopting better self-care practices.

June is National Men’s Health Month, making it an excellent opportunity to assess and take control of your well-being. Trusted online resources can provide guidance: USDA’s Choose My Plate offers advice for healthier eating, AARP provides valuable information on brain health and driving safety, and the
CDC offers details on immunizations and vaccinations.

Spending time with others contributes to mental and emotional well-being. Be aware of your health numbers, such as weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. To reduce the risk of falls and fractures, incorporate strength training and weight-bearing exercises into your routine.

Most importantly, make sure to schedule an appointment with your primary care physician. If you feel uncomfortable with your current doctor, consider finding a new one. Ask friends and neighbors for recommendations to identify a trusted replacement.

It’s essential to have a partner you can rely on along your journey toward good health.

Don’t forget that there are countless opportunities at Trinity Woods to seek out wellness; physical exercise options, educational and social activities, emotional, spiritual and vocational connections, all supporting your overall health. I encourage all the men out there to flip the script and change the narrative!