10.11: Summary
Adolescents, adults, and older adults make up the majority of the U.S. (and the world’s) population. While there are some differences in what people need to be healthy at different ages, many of our primary health concerns continue across the lifespan. The prevalence of mental illness, substance abuse disorders, and violence are growing public health concerns, influenced strongly by biological, environmental, and the social determinants of health. Unintentional injuries are particularly concerning as they often affect young people the most - thus costing the most in years of potential life lost (YPLL). But the public health outlook for adults is not all bleak. Healthy behaviors such as proper nutrition and physical activity can improve both physical and mental health and well-being for anyone, at any age. Creating environments and supporting community efforts to encourage healthy behaviors may also help to discourage health-risk behaviors at the same time, and support the pursuit of long, healthy lives for all.