2025 Integrative Medicine Insights

How do adults 50 and older feel about their health? And what role does integrative medicine play?

AARP’s latest Integrative Medicine Omni Survey explores the health priorities, experiences and attitudes of adults age 50 and older. With over 1,000 respondents nationwide, this study sheds light on how older adults manage their health, interact with health care providers and view complementary and integrative approaches.

Key Findings

• Health challenges are common: 8 in 10 adults 50-plus face at least one health issue, with joint pain and back pain leading the list.
• Biggest concerns: Heart health, sleep quality and weight management top the charts. Adults 65-plus worry more about heart health, while those 50–64 focus on weight.
• Positive provider experiences: Most older adults give their health care providers high marks for listening and coordination.
• Preventative care conversations: Over half say their doctors regularly discuss lifestyle factors like exercise and nutrition.
• Integrative medicine? Not so much: Only 18% have talked about complementary health approaches with a provider, even though many take supplements.
• Barriers to trying new approaches: Lack of information and uncertainty about effectiveness are the biggest hurdles.

Methodology

The survey was conducted November 13 to 17, 2025, using NORC’s Foresight 50+ Panel. It included 1,008 adults age 50 and older across diverse demographics.

For more information, please contact Stephanie Childs at schilds@aarp.org. For media inquiries, contact External Relations at media@aarp.org.