Common Health Concerns for Seniors

Heart Disease

Heart disease is one of the most fatal chronic diseases for older people so there’s no question as to why it’s a common health concern. In fact, heart disease affects 37-percent of men and 26-percent of women ages 65 and older.

As we age our risk of high blood pressure and high cholesterol also increases which puts us at a greater risk for heart disease and increases your chances of having a stroke. Some great ways to improve your health include, eating a healthy and balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting a good night’s rest every day. You may also want to check out these foods that can help boost heart health!

Cognitive Decline

Cognitive decline is a common concern for seniors but it’s important to know that while some memory loss is common, types of dementia such as Alzheimer’s disease are not a normal part of aging. The Alzheimer’s Association said that 51-percent of seniors reported that they notice changes in their ability to think, understand, and remember things while 22-percent of those seniors worry about these changes.

They also said that one in nine seniors reported that these types of changes interfered with their ability to function in common activities such as grocery shopping, cooking, and getting dressed. Be sure you learn to recognize the most common early signs of Alzheimer’s because early intervention and treatment is of the utmost importance.

Arthritis

Many seniors are concerned about arthritis and for good reason. Maria Bernard, MD, deputy director of the National Institute on Aging in Bethesda, Maryland says, “Arthritis is probably the number one condition that people 65 or older contend with.”

According to the CDC, about 49-percent of all adults over 65 in the U.S. are affected by arthritis. Unfortunately, for some seniors, arthritis can lead to not only pain but lower quality life. There are some great natural ways to relieve arthritis pain but always be sure to work with your medical professional for a proper diagnosis and to make a treatment plan.

Vision and Hearing Loss

Our bodies are constantly changing as we age and it’s common for older adults to experience some vision and hearing loss. Some common age-related eye problems include cataracts, dry eyes, macular degeneration, and glaucoma.

Furthermore, even though hearing loss is common throughout all age groups, the severity of it can increase as we age. 25-percent of adults age 65 to 74 experience debilitating hearing loss and that increases to about 50-percent of adults aged 75 and older. This is why keeping up with regular vision and hearing exams is very important and will help you detect issues early on.

Cancer

According to the CDC, cancer is the second most fatal chronic condition among older adults over the age of 65. Thankfully, many types of cancer are treatable as long as they are detected early enough. This makes screenings such as colonoscopies, mammograms, and regular skin checks so important.

Cancer isn’t always preventable but there are ways you can stay positive. Check out these 6 steps to take after a cancer diagnosis. Finally, be sure to work with your medical professional to figure out the best course of treatment as well as tips to improve your quality of life.

Respiratory Disease

Respiratory disease is a type of disease that affects the lungs as well as other parts of the respiratory system. It can be caused by infection, smoking tobacco, second-hand smoke, breathing in asbestos, or other types of harmful air pollution. Chronic lower respiratory disease (CLRD) is the third most fatal disease among older adults aged 65 and older. This includes chronic bronchitis, asthma, emphysema, and others.

Chronic lower respiratory disease puts seniors at risk because it can make you more vulnerable to pneumonia as well as other infections. Thankfully, there are great ways to improve your quality of life such as taking prescribed medication or using oxygen. You should also be sure to keep up with your lung function tests to ensure you take the best course of action.

Depression

Depression may not be a normal part of aging but it is common. The American Psychological Association states that about 15- to 20-percent of Americans age 65 and older have experienced depression.

Depression is dangerous for seniors because it can lower your immunity which can endanger your body’s ability to fight infections. It’s so important to learn and recognize the signs and symptoms of depression and never be afraid to ask for help. With the right treatment, your quality of life can significantly improve.

Diabetes

According to the CDC, roughly 26-percent of seniors aged 65 and older are living with diabetes. This is a health concern for seniors because older adults with type 1 diabetes are at a greater risk of developing diseases associated with the heart such as stroke, coronary artery disease, and heart attacks.

Further, almost three in four people with type 1 diabetes will suffer from a heart-related issue as they age. This is why taking control by managing your blood sugar and making lifestyle changes such as changing your diet, as soon as possible is so important.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a disease in which the bones become brittle and weak. So much that your risk for fracture is greatly increased. The National Osteoporosis Foundation estimates that 54 million Americans, ages 50 and older are at risk of breaking a bone and therefore should be very concerned about bone health.

Thankfully there are some great ways you can prevent osteoporosis later in life. Things like adjusting your diet, exercising regularly, and seeing your medical professional for regular screenings are all great practices to protecting your bones and improving your quality of life.

Pneumonia and Influenza

Pneumonia and influenza aren’t a senior-specific illness but they are a health concern because seniors are more vulnerable due to their weakened immune systems. A weak immune system will make it harder for your body to fight off viruses.

The flu can progress to pneumonia which is an even greater risk for seniors because this can lead to hospitalization and in worst cases, it can even be fatal. Check out these best flu prevention tips! Keep in mind, it would be best to speak to your healthcare professional to find out the best steps you can take to prevent these complications.

Oral Health Issues

Oral health is not only important for a beautiful smile but it plays an important role in your overall health too. As you age, you become more at risk for a number of oral health problems such as root decay, gum disease, darkened teeth, dry mouth, tooth loss, denture-induced stomatitis, and thrush.

Some of the best oral health tips include visiting your dentists regularly, ensure you brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss daily, and rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash as least once a day. These best practices should be a priority that will only lead to healthy gums and teeth.