Illinois ranked 28th among states for senior health, according to a recent report by the United Health Foundation.  [Health News Illinois]

The state saw a drop in the number of homicides per 100,000 seniors, and a 6 percent increase in the percentage of mental health providers. However, it saw a drop in the percentage of those who received flu shots, and an increase in the percentage of those who reported depression.

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The report highlights that Illinois did well when it came to having a low prevalence of frequent mental distress and cigarette smoking, and access to dental care providers. 

Challenges included a high prevalence of excessive drinking, preventable hospitalization rates and air pollution.

Nationally, the report found improvements in preventive health behaviors, growth in the workforce for older adults, a decline in physical inactivity and improvements in the early death rate. It uncovered challenges in mental and behavioral health for seniors, as well as increasing food insecurity. 

“Our nation has made meaningful progress in prevention and expanding the workforce that supports older adults,” Dr. Rhonda Randall, executive vice president and chief medical officer for UnitedHealthcare Employer & Individual, said in a statement. “There are still urgent challenges that require focused attention, particularly related to behavioral health and substance use.”

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