Did you know that over a quarter of today's 20-year-olds will become disabled before reaching retirement age?* And it's not just those in physically demanding jobs who are at risk. Even professionals who spend their days behind a desk, like CPAs and financial professionals, can become disabled and unable to earn a paycheck.
Good news is there are key steps that can help you maintain your health and potentially decrease the risk of disability.
1. Put safety first
-
Always wear seat belts while driving, avoid distracted driving, and follow traffic rules.
-
Install safety measures at home like smoke detectors, non-slip mats, and adequate lighting to prevent falls and other accidents.
2. Live a healthy lifestyle
-
Have a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can help maintain good health and prevent diseases.
-
Regular physical activity can help maintain a healthy weight, reduce the risk of heart disease, and strengthen bones and muscles.
-
Avoiding harmful substances such as tobacco and excessive alcohol can significantly reduce the risk of diseases like cancer and liver disease.
-
Regular medical check-ups can help detect potential health issues early and prevent them from becoming severe.
3. Your mental health matters
-
Practice stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, or other relaxation exercises.
-
Maintain strong social connections with family and friends.
-
Seek professional help if you're experiencing symptoms of mental health disorders. Early intervention can prevent these conditions from worsening.
With rising medical costs and a lack of emergency savings, you could struggle financially if you had to miss work due to a disability. But by following the steps above, you can help significantly reduce your risk.
______________________________________________________________________________________
*Council for Disability Awareness, Disability Statistics, September 2021
Group Insurance coverages are issued by The Prudential Insurance Company of America, a Prudential Financial company, Newark, NJ.
1079845-00001-00