In a recent study by the Lighthouse Dental Centre, Colorado stands out as the number one state when it comes to the health and well-being of its residents.
This comprehensive research carried out during the summer, takes into account a variety of factors from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The study looks at things like the quality of the air we breathe, how many people are dealing with obesity, how active folks are, the health conditions they face, how well they sleep, and their habits regarding smoking and drinking. It even looks at what people eat.
Healthiest and least healthiest states in the USA
The state of Colorado has earned its top spot in this health ranking due to its low levels of air pollution, diseases, and obesity.
On the flip side, West Virginia, which is ranked as the least healthy state, faces issues such as high air pollution, obesity, physical inactivity, poor sleep, smoking, excessive drinking, and tooth loss.
Miss this place, most active and healthiest state in the US! pic.twitter.com/f8k3hSpNcO
— MikeFIT (@Testostafit) September 12, 2013
Notably, West Virginia has also been recently labeled the unhappiest state in the United States. This designation is due to troubling rates of adult depression, lack of emotional and physical well-being, an unsatisfactory work environment, and inadequate sleep, as reported by WalletHub.
Top 10 most healthy states in the US
1. Colorado
2. Hawaii
3. Vermont
4. New Hampshire
5. Utah
6. Massachusetts
7. Connecticut
8. Minnesota
9. Washington
10. California
Top 10 least healthy states in the US
1. West Virginia
2. Kentucky
3. Louisiana
4. Alabama
5. Mississippi
6. Arkansas
7. Oklahoma
8. Tennessee
9. Missouri
10. Ohio
New York secures the 23rd position
In the Lighthouse study, New York secures the 23rd position. This ranking is influenced by higher obesity rates, insufficient physical activity, a notable prevalence of smoking, and a high occurrence of chronic diseases within the state.
These findings align with recent research conducted by OnePoll for ClearMatch Medicare, which reveals that a significant majority, approximately two-thirds, of Americans aged 65 and older express regret for not having taken their health more seriously during their younger years.
Sunrise in New York City seen from along the Hudson River in Jersey City, NJ, Friday morning #newyorkcity #nyc #newyork #sunrise pic.twitter.com/uOU0QHYtJR
— Gary Hershorn (@GaryHershorn) October 13, 2023
Ben Pajak, CEO of ClearMatch Medicare, which is a part of HealthPlanOne, emphasizes that many seniors have voiced regrets regarding not giving their health due importance in their earlier years. Nevertheless, the data unambiguously shows that it’s never too late to make a positive change.
Pajak suggests that everyone should think about setting fitness goals to uphold their best possible health.
Moreover, it’s worth mentioning that most Medicare Advantage plans currently offer fitness benefits to help older Americans in their self-care endeavors and endeavors to lead active lifestyles.