Staying Active, Independent and Prepared

What does it really mean to plan for our health after 60 – not from a place of fear, but so that we can remain active, independent and involved in the lives we want to lead? My guest is Laura Ashforth, CEO and co-founder of Lateral, a specialist health insurer created for active people over 60. Laura explains why traditional health insurance can become increasingly expensive as we grow older, and how Lateral has been designed to sit alongside the NHS rather than replace it. We talk about timely access to diagnostic tests and elective procedures, the importance of continuity of care and the choices available when navigating NHS and private healthcare. But this conversation goes beyond insurance. Laura and I discuss: \* Why we need to think about healthcare before we need it \* The difference between lifespan and health span \* Annual health checks, screenings and preventative care \* Maintaining strength, mobility and independence \* Why health advice should reflect our age and stage of life \* The contribution older people continue to make \* How activities such as walking, gardening and pickleball can support both physical health and social connection Laura’s message is a positive one: reaching our 60s does not mean that we intend to slow down or stop. By paying attention to our health now, we give ourselves a better chance of continuing to contribute, explore and enjoy the years ahead. **Please note:** This conversation is for general information and does not constitute medical or financial advice. Health insurance is subject to individual eligibility, terms and exclusions. Links **Discover Lateral & Explore healthy-ageing articles and resources:** https://www.lateral.uk/ **Buy my book, *Ageing Wonderfully Well: The Good News about Midlife and Growing Older*:**https://geni.us/AgeingWonderfullyWell Get full access to Midlife & Beyond with Jo Blackwell at joblackwellmidlifeandbeyond.substack.com/subscribe