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As we age, our bodies undergo a series of changes that can make us more susceptible to certain health issues. While some of these changes are inevitable, there are steps we can take to minimize the risks associated with ageing. One of the most important things we can do is to stay informed about the health issues that are most common among older adults.
Some of the most common health issues to watch out for as you grow older include heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, and arthritis. These conditions can be debilitating and even life-threatening, but with proper care and management, many older adults are able to live long, healthy lives. By staying informed about the risks associated with ageing and taking proactive steps to maintain good health, we can all enjoy a happy, fulfilling life as we grow older.
With advancements in medical science, ageing has gotten easier for us than it was for our grandparents. But, that being said, we’re still having to deal with a whole range of different health issues as we continue to age. Here are 8 health issues that you should be looking out for and how you may be able to prevent them.
Potential Aging Health issues to look out for
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is one of the scariest conditions to affect people, especially women, of a certain age. It’s where your bones begin to weaken and are thus much more likely to break. Osteoporosis can limit activities and may require you to take medication for the pain. Fortunately, it’s also one of the easier conditions to prevent through a healthy lifestyle. Make sure you stick to a nutritious diet with plenty of calcium and vitamin D, avoid smoking and heavy drinking, and take part in some kind of weight-bearing activity on a regular basis.
Functional Disability
Functional disabilities such as a loss of balance, slower reflexes, and poor coordination, don’t usually stem from a single condition, but from a host of issues. Loss of muscle strength, hearing and vision loss, and even diabetes and heart disease can make dizziness, falls and accidents more likely. Overall health can help to offset some of the factors that play into functional disabilities.
People with such conditions often have limited mobility and need to invest in technology and equipment such as wheelchairs, and mobility scooters to get around. Be sure to check out stairlifts prices to enable them to live as long as possible in their own homes before you have to think about relocating to a single-storey home or care facility.
Vision Loss
Many people turn forty and find that having had no issues with their vision in the past, they’re now squinting when they read. A number of conditions can affect vision around middle age, including presbyopia, cataracts, and glaucoma. This is much more difficult to prevent, but it can be treated. If you feel your vision is significantly changing, talk to your doctor as soon as possible. The likes of presbyopia can be easily treated by wearing glasses.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar Fasciitis arises when the ligaments in your feet tear due to pressure, resulting in an awful pain in your heel. An extremely simple way of preventing this condition is to provide extra support to your feet by having comfortable and supportive shoes. So, look around for the best shoes for plantar fasciitis and start caring for your feet more.
Arthritis
Arthritis is not just one condition, but a whole range of different conditions affecting joints in different parts of the body. Osteoarthritis is the most common, occurring when the cartilage begins to wear away in the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis is another common type, an autoimmune disease leading to inflammation of the joints. This type of arthritis is often treated with steroids and other anti-inflammatory drugs.
Digestive Issues
A major digestive issue to look out for is GERD or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. GERD affects the oesophagal sphincter leading to heartburn and reflux, which can lead to discomfort and a loss of appetite. Antacids can help to soothe an upset stomach, but switching to a mild diet is a healthier option.
Tooth and Gum Disease
As you age, expect to deal with gingivitis, periodontitis, and regular old tooth decay. While dental treatment is always an option, it can be expensive. The best prevention is simply to take care of your teeth. Brush your teeth regularly and visit a dentist regularly.
Memory Loss
Memory loss is common in older age and often irreversible. Medical science is making leaps and bounds in the early identification, prevention, and treatment of memory loss and Alzheimer’s disease. Keeping the mind active can be a big help in staying sharp. It’s like a muscle, you can use it or lose it. Taking up a hobby like crossword puzzles, Sudoku or just reading more can be a big help in fighting memory loss.
Ageing can be frightening. Whether you’re turning forty or you’re turning eighty. But, with prevention, nutrition, and exercise, it’s possible to offset some of the effects of ageing in order to maintain a healthy, active lifestyle for decades to come. A little bit of proper care goes a long way.
If you’d like to further understand how our bodies change and what you can expect at different ages, comprehensive information about aging stages can be valuable in navigating and embracing the aging process.
