At Cleo, we believe meaningful care begins with understanding. And for our growing Medicare Advantage population, that understanding now has a name: Health Pulse.

This comprehensive, member-completed assessment provides a window into each individual’s physical, mental, social, and healthcare experiences—so we can better anticipate their needs and intervene before issues become crises. Think of it as a Medicare Advantage version of our risk-assessment tool, the Family Health Index.

Medicare Advantage enrollment has been on a steady climb for the past two decades. In 2024, 32.8 million people in the U.S. were enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, accounting for more than half, or 54 percent, of the eligible Medicare population.

The early results are promising. As of today, 67% of Cleo’s enrolled Medicare Advantage members have completed the Health Pulse, with 88% scheduled to complete the assessment.

In a population where proactive engagement can be life-changing—and even lifesaving—this level of participation speaks volumes. Our members are not only eager to share their stories; they’re trusting Cleo to listen, respond, and take action.

 

Uncovering the hidden risks behind “good” health

A deeper dive into Health Pulse responses tells an interesting complex story—one shaped by chronic illness, functional decline, social isolation, and invisible emotional strain.

• 95% of members live with at least one chronic condition—most commonly hypertension, high cholesterol, chronic pain, and anxiety.
• 66% are at risk of falling, and 48% need help with daily activities like dressing, bathing, or preparing meals.
• 37% take six or more prescription medications, and a significant number report difficulties with adherence or experience polypharmacy challenges.

 

Listening between the lines: Loneliness, pain, and daily struggles

Health Pulse also reveals the many non-clinical forces that shape our members’ wellbeing.

You may have already heard of Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) — the conditions in the environments where people are born, live, and work that affect their health. Cleo’s approach focuses on addressing Health-Related Social Needs — the factors in which, in context, impact a person’s ability to maintain their health and well-being — because these are the areas where the company can drive real, measurable change.

While systemic issues like social and economic disparity are deeply entrenched and complex (influenced by age, gender, disability, geographic location, race, ethnicity, and other factors), Cleo recognizes that by providing personalized support to individuals and families within the SDOH context — and within the context of their aging — it can mitigate the downstream effects of these larger determinants.

40% report feeling lonely or socially isolated, and nearly one-third experience financial strain that affects their ability to access food, housing, or medical care. These aren’t side issues—they’re central to a member’s health journey. Social and emotional risks compound physical ones, creating barriers to recovery and resilience.

Pain and mobility are persistent challenges as well. Half of respondents report physical inactivity and poor diet, and more than a third use durable medical equipment like CPAP machines, walkers, or wheelchairs. These everyday obstacles influence not just how members feel, but how much agency they have over their lives.

Yet despite these realities, the optimism is striking. Members trust their doctors, they want to remain independent, and they engage with tools like Health Pulse because they both see value in being heard and are open to support and intervention.

 

How Cleo is helping

Cleo’s Health Pulse is a roadmap. The insights we’ve gathered are already helping Cleo’s teams prioritize and personalize proactive support:

Care Navigation: Members who report mobility limitations or fall risk are proactively connected to physical therapy resources, home modification grants, or mobility device training.

Emotional Wellness: Our mental health coaches are stepping in earlier for members showing signs of anxiety or loss of interest, even if symptoms aren’t severe yet.

Social Connection: Members experiencing loneliness are being guided toward community programs, peer groups, and culturally relevant social resources.

Medication Safety: Those with polypharmacy concerns are being flagged for review and adherence support.

These interventions are powered by real-time data and delivered with Cleo’s signature blend of human empathy and clinical precision.

 

Early wins, lasting impact

The early success of Health Pulse proves something we’ve long believed at Cleo: when you meet members with curiosity, respect, and the tools to take action, they respond. Our Medicare Advantage population is engaging at exceptional rates—and in doing so, they’re helping us rewrite the narrative around aging, independence, and care.

We’re only just beginning, but the path is clear. With Health Pulse as our guide, we’re ready to help every member live a healthier, more connected life—on their terms.

Learn more about Cleo for Medicare Advantage or get in touch today.