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It’s not unusual for people to experience declining health as they advance in years. Indeed, research indicates that approximately 80% of adults 65 and older battle at least one chronic disease. These health conditions can impact older adults’ mobility, emotional welfare, and functional status while increasing their dependence on others, ultimately reducing their quality of life. Fortunately, raising awareness of these diseases can help people prevent or manage them while promoting their well-being. That said, here are the top ten common diseases that older adults will likely experience.
- Heart diseases
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heart disease ranks among the leading causes of death in adults over 65. This is because their high blood pressure, cholesterol, and stroke risk factors increase as they grow. Fortunately, eating well, exercising, and enjoying good quality sleep are good habits to promote health and reduce the risk of cardiovascular conditions.
2. Osteoporosis
Most older adults develop osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bone density. Osteoporosis is linked with higher risks of bone fracture. It’s also worth noting that it is more common in women. Therefore, doctors recommend bone density screening for women 65 and above to quickly detect and address this condition. Fortunately, several treatments are available for osteoporosis, including exercise and mineral supplements.
3. Shingles
People who experience chickenpox as kids have a higher risk of experiencing shingles. The National Institutes of Health reports that about one in three seniors will get shingles, and half of Americans experience this condition before they hit 80. Shingles typically affect one side of your body, and it can begin with symptoms like severe pain before escalating to itchy rashes and blisters. The good news is that there is a vaccine to help with this common disease. Be sure to do ample amount of research and seek medical professional opinions for the best way to proceed.
4. Respiratory disease
It’s worth noting that chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the third leading cause of senior deaths in people over 65. It’s not uncommon for people to struggle with asthma and chronic bronchitis as they age. Admittedly, chronic respiratory issues increase their health risks by making them prone to pneumonia and other infections. However, studies suggest using oxygen according to prescribed instructions can alleviate the discomforts of these conditions, so keep this in mind.
5. Alzheimer’s disease and dementia
Alzheimer’s is a form of dementia – a condition that results in memory loss and affects the ability to think critically and solve problems. While dementia isn’t necessarily a normal sign of growing old, it’s caused by changes in the brain that happen over time. The major risk factors for Alzheimer’s’ and dementia are not often controllable as they can range from ageing to family history and genetics. However, staying physically active and sleeping well can help slow or curb the onset of symptoms. Playing board games and puzzles can also stimulate the mind.
6. Diabetes
Various studies show that a quarter of older people live with diabetes, making it a significant health risk. This condition occurs when the body doesn’t manufacture sufficient insulin to generate energy from food and distribute it to your cells. High blood sugar levels can cause complications like kidney problems, heart disease, and blindness. It’s also worth noting that the chances of developing diabetes increase after 45. Diabetes can be diagnosed through simple blood tests for your sugar levels. Your doctor can offer the most effective treatments to reduce your blood sugar level and alleviate diabetes symptoms, so feel free to consider this.
7. Cancer
After cardiovascular diseases, cancer tops the charts as a prevalent cause of death in older people. However, by age 85, the mortality rates of cancer cases gradually fall. Slow-developing tumours rather appear to be common in this age group. Cancer in the elderly is triggered by UV radiation, excessive alcohol consumption, overeating, tobacco consumption, and so on. Regular screenings and healthy lifestyle changes can reduce cancer risks, so keep this in mind.
8. Depression
Depression can compromise seniors’ immune systems and impact their ability to resist infections. Aside from seeking medication treatment and therapy, seniors can improve their mood through increased physical activity. Exercises like yoga, walking, and so on can alleviate depression, so keep this in mind. Another effective way to stay positive and happy is by interacting with others. Spending time with friends and loved ones can be beneficial. Diet can also trigger depression. Therefore, experts recommend ditching junk food, alcohol, processed meats, and so on. Instead, opt for healthier options like fruit and vegetables.
9. Osteoarthritis
It’s the second most prevalent chronic health challenge among older American adults, giving rise to pain and disability. Osteoarthritis prevalence is often higher in women than men. Obesity is a common risk factor for osteoarthritis, so keep this in mind. This disease attacks and wears your joint cartilage, breaking them down over time. This can cause swelling and inflammation, leading to pain or stiffness. Lower back pain is one leading symptom of osteoarthritis, and older women particularly experience it due to many factors.
Consider consulting clinicians for effective relief from your arthritis pain. Osteoarthritis treatment may involve replacement surgery, normally followed by extensive rehabilitative therapies. Fortunately, clinics like Lone Star Spine and Pain Institute offer the needed treatment to alleviate osteoarthritis. Non-pharmacologic treatments can also work, and for some forms of arthritis changing your diet to more noninflammatory foods can help. Be sure to ask your doctor LOTS of questions on how to help get relief from arthritis or any of the health, mental or emotional issues you are having to deal with.
10. Chronic kidney disease (CKD)
Chronic kidney diseases lead to a drastic decline in kidney performance over time, and they affect about 18% of seniors. Unfortunately, this can increase the risks of cardiac disease or kidney failure. It’s also worth noting that diabetes and hypertension can damage your kidney. Consider going for routine screening for early detection of CKD for treatment. You may also try prescriptions to manage your symptoms.
As discussed above, aging comes with increased risks of developing health challenges. Knowing these common age-related chronic conditions can help you take steps to avoid certain diseases as you grow older. And if you already have an illness, awareness and help from a professional healthcare person like a doctor or specialist can also help you manage the illness better without compromising your quality of life.
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