Getting into old ripe age is already a privilege; however, not everyone is blessed with physical and mental strength that accompanies them to advanced years. What are the most typical health problems of golden years, and what are the solutions? Let’s learn more.
1. Cardiovascular diseases
Cardiovascular diseases keep their ‘anti’ leadership for years, and they seem to be extending the impact. Heart failure, high pressure, aortic valve disease, stroke, arrhythmia, artery diseases, atherosclerosis…the list can go on and on.
Although heart diseases started hitting young age, people of 65+ are in the biggest risk group. It is essential to undergo regular tests and monitoring to detect the initial stages of a disease and prevent it from worsening. The best preventive method is an active lifestyle, and healthy diet, as they make the foundation of a healthy body.
2. Diabetes
Diabetes, especially type 2, is a common disease that affects many adults. It occurs when the level of glucose is too high, as the body misuses insulin to transform it into energy. Diabetes is an ‘insidious’ enemy, as it has a detrimental impact on the whole body as it starts the whole chain of health issues, especially with heart, and blood vessels. Type 2 diabetes can have genetic roots, but more and more often it targets people with extra weight and lack of physical activities.
3. Arthritis
Arthritis and its various types (more than 150) can be the cause of infections, genetics, constant injuries and overuse of joints, etc. While the reasons are different, the results lead to the same condition – joint pain and swelling, stiffness, inability to move, lowered quality of life. One of the best ways to prevent arthritis from developing is regular visits to the doctors, moderate physical activities, healthy diet and supplements.
4. Obesity
Obesity is a worldwide ‘enemy’, affecting people of all ages. Yet, it is in the older age that it leads to numerous medical conditions and health limitations, even to disability. Obesity can be prevented, and the patient should always be under doctor’s supervision.
5. Depression
Depression in the older age can be the quintessence of physical and psychological problems. It leads to excessive agitation, ‘empty’ emotional tank, feeling of worthlessness, which can induce serious health issues.
Depression requires medical help and support.
How to Prevent Common Diseases in Old Age?
It is important to understand that certain medical conditions cannot be reversed, as it is often a mix of risk factors. However, it is possible to maintain health in a relatively stable condition, allowing people to enjoy their lives.
1. Physical activity
Despite so many research results proving the necessity of physical activity, many people still neglect it, choosing more comfortable and effortless ways of transportation.
Movement causes our muscular system to work, thus maintaining its elasticity and power. If the tissue is not used, it becomes weak, eventually making the activities exhausting and difficult. According to research, adults should aim for at least 150 -300 minutes of moderate activity every week, around 5-6 kilometers a day. It can be a good idea to buy a smartwatch that will help to track activities, steps, routes, etc.
2. Socialization
People need people.
Socialization is one of the keys to positive well-being. When people reach the golden age it doesn’t mean the end of life, but the change of a lifestyle. Now, with all the time available, it is possible to find workshops, hobby centers and groups to meet like-minded people and keep learning new things. When actively participating in activities, people feel as a part of a group, which is an important part of psychological well-being.
3. Safe environment
Seniors often lose coordination and sense of balance, which leads to falls. Therefore, creating a safe environment will help to avoid physical injuries.
The whole living space should be reorganized to create an uninterrupted movements – rearrange the furniture, declutter and widen the the walkways, tie and tape the loose wires to the walls, place non-slip mats in bathrooms and WCs, install grab bars in the toilet and in the bedside area – all such adjustments will make the movement around the house safer, and help avoid falls, broken limbs, and further complications.
4. Change of daily routine
We all grow older, and the body loses its strength, it is just a fact.
Hence, it is important to adapt to such changes in daily routines. All the physically-demanding world should be done with the help of specific appliances or simply a helping hand. Listen to your body and don’t overload it with extra work.
5. Checkups
Forewarned-forearmed.
Regular medical checkups are important at any age, not to mention old age. Schedule regular visits to the doctors to perform the test and keep tabs on all the changes in your body. It will bring you a piece of mind and help to detect all the deteriorations at their initial stage.
In conclusion, advanced age is prone to weakening, yet, with the right approach and smart limitations, the health condition can be maintained at a good level, allowing the person to enjoy life.
About the Author/s
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.
