People in the developed world can expect to live longer than ever before. While this means we can all look forward to more happy years with our friends and family, it also brings a need to take better care of our health in our senior years. If you’ve passed the age of 65, you can still have a healthy and fulfilling life, but it pays to be aware of some of the main health concerns facing seniors…
Arthritis
Arthritis is one of the most prevalent conditions that people over the age of 65 suffer from, affecting almost half of North American seniors. If it’s not addressed and treated properly, it can lead to massive amounts of pain, and a lower quality of life for people in later life. The effects of arthritis can discourage patients from being active, but effective treatment hinges heavily on healthy amounts of exercise. If you’re diagnosed with this condition, it’s essential to work with your doctor to draft a personal activity plan which, along with medical treatment, can work wonders to maintain your health well into old age.
Osteoporosis
Somewhat similar to arthritis, osteoporosis can affect a person’s mobility. In some cases, it leads to disability if the patient falls and has a fracture, or the vertebral bodies collapse and falter. The treatment usually includes a course of medication from your doctor, and can be supported by calcium supplements, which you can read more about in these AlgaeCal reviews and testimonials. As you move further into old age, there are various preventative measures you can take to lower your risk of osteoporosis. Quitting smoking and minimising your alcohol consumption are always smart moves, whatever your age, and getting a decent amount of exercise in can also help your chances of getting osteoporosis massively.
Heart Disease
Heart disease is one of the most common causes of death for people over 65 in North America, and accounts for hundreds of thousands of deaths each year. As people age, they’ll naturally begin to live with more and more risk factors, such as high cholesterol and high blood pressure, which increases the chances of having a stroke or developing heart disease. Again, your best defence is sticking to a generally healthy lifestyle; eating well, exercising in any way you can, and getting a good night’s sleep. If you’re unsure about how you can assure any of these, talk to your physician.
Diabetes
Roughly a quarter of people over the age of 65 suffer from diabetes, and this condition is the root cause of many seniors’ deaths. Fortunately, it can be identified and addressed fairly early, through simple, painless tests for blood sugar levels. These should be taken fairly regularly when you get into your senior years. The sooner you know you’re at risk of diabetes, or actually have it, the sooner you can start taking preventative measures to minimise your risk. The effects of diabetes can present a serious strain on your quality of life, but simple dietary changes can be all it takes to avoid the condition.