Obama Administration Releases National Strategy on Wellness

Several government health officials announced Thursday the release of the National Prevention and Health Promotion Strategy (PDF), a plan aimed at increasing the number of Americans who are healthy at every stage of life.

The wellness strategy was developed by the National Prevention Council, which is composed of 17 federal agencies who consulted with outside experts and stakeholders, and outlines four directions that would improve the nation’s health:

● building healthy and safe community environments

● expanding quality preventive services in both clinical and community settings

● empowering people to make healthy choices

● eliminating health disparities

“With better health, seniors keep their independence,” according to a government fact sheet accompanying the announcement. “Support for older adults who choose to remain in their homes and communities and retain their independence (‘aging in place’) helps promote and maintain positive mental and emotional health.”

The National Prevention Council and other stakeholders will work to implement the strategy at the national, state, tribal, and local levels.