Growing older is a natural and inevitable part of life. Aging is something many people fear; however, you should take this as a favorable sign as you have lived a long life. However, as we get older, our bodies become weaker, so it’s important to keep up with healthy habits that can help avoid future medical conditions.
Some medical conditions are genetic, others are environmental, and some are spurred along by old age. In this blog, we’ll explore five of the most common health issues that seniors experience. Keep reading to find out what they are…
1 Diabetes
As we get older, our bodies become more resistant to insulin, which causes a higher probability of developing diseases such as diabetes. Similarly, factors like family history, obesity, and hormonal diseases could also contribute to the development of this condition. This could pose a significant health risk, so it’s worth going for regular checkups after the age of 65.
2 Hearing Loss
Another medical condition that can become more prominent over the years is hearing loss. This is typically caused by changes in the inner ear and damage to the nerve pathways between the brain and our ears. Thankfully, technology has advanced significantly, and there are plenty of affordable hearing aids for seniors available on the market.
3 Influenza
More commonly known as the flu, Influenza can cause serious problems to seniors over the age of 65. Since the elderly are less able to fight diseases, they become more vulnerable to conditions such as influenza and pneumonia. For best practice, it’s recommended that seniors get their yearly flu and pneumonia vaccines to help prevent any seriously debilitating issues. Another way you can prevent catching the flu is by washing your hands regularly and avoiding close contact with those who are sick.
4 Arthritis
One of the most common health issues diagnosed in individuals over the age of 65 is arthritis. Common symptoms of arthritis include swelling and pain in the joints, especially in the hands, wrists, elbows, and knees. Sadly, there is no cure for arthritis. All you can do is try to minimize the pain and preserve joint function through medicine and weight reduction.
5 Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease
Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease often go hand in hand. Dementia refers to the decline of cognitive abilities, whereas Alzheimer’s refers to the specific disease that affects the brain. It’s very hard to see a loved one develop this condition; however, it becomes increasingly common in senior years. This is a brain condition that only gets worse with time, and symptoms include interference with memory, thinking, and reasoning skills.
At the end of the day, health should be your top priority. Without great health, you won’t be able to practice the things you enjoy or spend quality time with the people you love. If you do happen to develop a medical issue, it’s important that you take the time to rest, recover, and treat your condition. Don’t forget to keep a positive mindset and seek support whenever needed.
