A lot of changes occur as people grow older. It includes brain changes that affect thinking and memory. There’s also the loss of muscle strength and mass, which affects mobility. Another is a decrease in the production of hormones, which have physical effects, including skin dryness and the appearance of wrinkles. Older adults also become more at risk of various illnesses due to age. Note that these conditions are not a normal part of aging. They can be prevented, and some can be treated, especially if diagnosed early on. We listed the most common health concerns of older adults.
Memory problems
It’s normal for older adults to forget things every now and then. Even younger individuals may experience it. However, if it becomes more frequent and affects the person’s ability to decide or think, then it could be a sign of dementia. Old age is a risk factor for this condition. There are various types of dementia, so there is no specific treatment for all. However, experts suggest that a healthy lifestyle can significantly lower its risk. For example, eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly can help lower the chance of acquiring it.
Incontinence
The involuntary or accidental leaking of urine is commonly associated with old age. Many seniors experience it, but even younger people can suffer from it too. The good thing is that there are natural solutions to incontinence, including pelvic floor exercise, bladder training, and pilates. There are also ways to prevent it, such as losing weight, as excessive weight could put pressure on the bladder, and avoiding irritants that could affect the bladder, like spicy foods and caffeine.
Heart disease
Seniors are at risk of having high cholesterol and high blood pressure. If not managed properly, it could lead to heart disease, one of the leading causes of death among older adults. Managing your blood pressure is one way to avoid the risk of developing heart disease. Other things that can help prevent this are maintaining a healthy weight, eating a nutritious diet, being more active, and avoiding alcohol and smoking.
Arthritis
Many older people get arthritis, which is the swelling of the joints. Some of its symptoms are muscle weakness surrounding the joints, limited movement of joints, and a popping or clicking sound when you bend the joints. Besides age, other risk factors of arthritis are genes, autoimmune disorders, obesity, and injuries. Like other diseases, living a healthy lifestyle can prevent this condition. Moreover, protecting the joints and preventing injuries could lower the chances of getting it.
Respiratory disease
Various respiratory diseases could jeopardise seniors’ health, including bronchitis and asthma. Wearing a mask is a simple yet effective way to avoid respiratory diseases, as it can prevent catching viruses and pollutants. Avoiding close contact with those who suffer from the said conditions will also help. In addition, strengthening your immune system by eating healthy, exercising, and getting enough sleep is recommended.Whether you are a senior or someone in the family is, these diseases can be prevented by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Get regular check-ups, too, so the doctor can diagnose any issue immediately and prevent it from worsening.