Geriatrician Sara Ali, MD, an RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group provider affiliated with Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, an RWJBarnabas Health facility. She is also the Medical Director of Geriatrics at Hamilton. Dr. Ali recommends patients 65+ see a geriatrician at least once.
As we age, our body functions differently and a geriatrician is trained specifically in identifying and treating symptoms and illnesses specific to this population. Geriatricians can either see patients as their Primary Care Physician or as a specialist working in tandem with their existing physician.
Dr. Ali shares her top three tips for healthy aging so we can make the most of all our years.
- Adopt a healthy diet as early as possible and continue this as you age. Eating well is the best way to get important nutrients, maintain heart health and fuel your body. The key to eating well is balanced meals that include protein, carbs, fruits and vegetables, and consuming the appropriate number of calories. You can speak to your provider about what the right number of calories are for you and your specific health needs or goals. When we are eating well, we will often have more energy and have an overall sense of being healthy.
- Maintain a regular exercise routine. While regular exercise is recommended at any age, it is especially important as we age. Cardiovascular activities such as walking are a great way to support your overall health, especially your heart health. Strength training, exercises done with weights, helps develop and maintain muscle. The combination of cardiovascular and strength exercises will help you maintain an active lifestyle. I also recommended incorporating balance training, such as yoga or Tai chi, into your weekly routine. By building better balance, you can reduce your risk for falls as you age. In addition to the many physical health benefits to exercise, daily movement is also great for mental health. I always suggest taking a walk or doing yoga with friends, loved ones, or even a pet to make it more social and enjoyable.
- Take your medication as prescribed. No matter your age, it is always recommended to take your medication exactly as prescribed by your provider. This is important because taking medication infrequently or stopping suddenly can negatively impact your health. If you do have any concerns about a medication or dosage, ask your pharmacist or provider. Even if you don’t have questions, bring a list of all current medications, including any vitamins and supplements, to every doctor’s appointment. And, never stop taking any medication unless instructed to do so by your provider.
One of the most overlooked aspects of healthy aging is social connection. Older adults who remain socially engaged through group activities, continued learning, medical education, or simply spending time with others often have better cognitive function, emotional well-being, and even physical health outcomes. “As a geriatrician, I don’t just focus on managing chronic illnesses or medications—I look at the whole person. That’s why comprehensive geriatric care includes guidance on staying active- socially, mentally, and physically,” says Dr. Ali. “As part of a healthy aging plan, adults 65+ years old in the community can turn to the Better Health Program at RWJUH Hamilton, a complimentary membership program offering monthly free programs, support groups, activities and holistic services including Tai Chi, chair Yoga, senior socials, and nutritional cooking demonstrations.” shares Dr. Ali. To learn more and become a Better Health member, call Health Connections at 609-584-5900.
Dr. Ali sees patients at RWJ Medical Associates located at 3100 Quakerbridge Road, Suite 28, Hamilton Township, NJ, and appointments can be made by calling 609- 245-7430. Most insurances are accepted.
RWJUH Hamilton is proud to carry the NICHE Designation (Nurses Improving Care for Healthsystem Elders) in recognition of the commitment to patient-centered care for older adult patients. Senior-Friendly NICHE hospitals recognize the specific/unique needs of seniors and that patient- and family-centered care is imperative to creating a positive experience for the elderly.
Through the hospital's participation in the NICHE program, the largest geriatric nursing program available, RWJUH Hamilton is able to offer evidence-based, interdisciplinary approaches that promote better outcomes, positive experiences and improved care for older adults. This leads to greater satisfaction for our patients and their families.
RWJUH Hamilton is also recognized as an Age-Friendly Health System Participant by the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI). Becoming an Age-Friendly Health System entails reliably providing a set of four evidence-based elements of high-quality care, known as the “4Ms,” to all older adults in your system: What Matters, Medication, Mentation, and Mobility. The Age-Friendly Health Systems initiative was launched in 2017 by The John A. Hartford Foundation and IHI, in partnership with the American Hospital Association and Catholic Health Association of the US. For more information, visit www.ihi.org/agefriendly.
Learn more at rwjbh.org/hamilton.
Or to locate a provider near you, visit rwjbh.org/medicalgroup.