8 Prevalent Illnesses In Seniors

Aging causes our bodies to become progressively more prone to several age-related health conditions. Home care Arlington professionals consider educating seniors and their families on these common illnesses to help them take preventive measures to lower the risk.

Mentioned below are some prevalent diseases that affect seniors more often.

1. Heart Disease

According to the American Heart Association, heart disease is the primary cause of decreased longevity among older adults aged 65 and beyond. More than 83 million adults experience one or more kinds of cardiovascular disease. High cholesterol and high blood pressure are two major risk factors for heart-related conditions. Going under blood tests is essential to have health-affecting factors examined. Regular physical activity and a heart-healthy diet, including vegetables, fruits, and lean protein, prevent the possibility of developing heart disease.

2. Diabetes

American Diabetes Association noted that 1 in 4 seniors over the age of 60 have diabetes. It is a serious health condition playing a major part in decreasing longevity rate each year. Fortunately, diabetes can easily be diagnosed with proper blood tests. Since Type 1 diabetes is unavoidable, inherited disease, many seniors found with diabetes have Type 2, which can be prevented and treated with a healthy lifestyle. Regularly check seniors' blood sugar levels and alter them to the manifestations and preventive measures against Type 2 diabetes to reduce its impact on seniors.

3. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Damaged airways of the lungs cause Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. It is a progressive condition that makes breathing difficult for seniors. As COPD develops over time, keeping an eye out for symptoms is essential, like chronic wheezing and coughing. Families and caregivers should encourage seniors to quit smoking, as it is the most common cause known to make the condition worse. Seniors with COPD often face exacerbating breathing challenges due to influenza. Flu shots and taking precautions in daily lifestyle are crucial against such illnesses as washing hands regularly.

4. Arthritis

More than 50 million older adults experience some form of arthritis nationwide. The chances of developing arthritis increase over time. Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis next to rheumatoid arthritis and gout. Seeking proper medical attention is emphasized for seniors with chronic joint pain. Effective stretches, range of motion exercises, and proper diet help seniors lower the risk of joint pain and inflammation.

5. Pneumonia

Lung function tests can help keep seniors from contracting respiratory diseases like pneumonia. Chronic fatigue and coughing are the two most common pneumonia symptoms. Seniors with this condition have a higher risk of developing severe pneumonia due to weak immune systems than young patients who recover after a few days of treatment. Pneumonia vaccines can protect seniors against the common bacterial cause of this condition. Parallel to COPD, it can also be averted if seniors protect themselves from influenza.

6. Dementia and Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease and other kinds of dementia are neurological disorders that impair memory and cognition. These conditions are common among older people, affecting 10% of those over the age of 65 and 50% of those over the age of 85. While there is no cure for Alzheimer's or dementia, drugs and therapies that can help control symptoms and enhance the quality of life may be available.

7. Blindness and Deafness

Vision and hearing loss are two age-related disorders that frequently affect people as they get older and can have a substantial adverse influence on their quality of life. Changes that occur in our eyes and ears as we age can cause difficulties with our vision and hearing. Glasses or hearing aids are two potential treatment choices, and having frequent checkups with an ophthalmologist or audiologist can aid in diagnosing and managing these issues.

8. GI Disorders

Older adults may have a higher prevalence of gastrointestinal diseases like diverticulitis, GERD, and constipation. Alterations to one's lifestyle, as well as one's nutrition and the way they take their medications, may also be considered as treatment options.

Conclusion

A well-balanced, healthy diet and regular physical are extremely important to keep at bay many health conditions, while others need vaccines to protect themselves against them. Arlington Home Care professionals suggest family caregivers keep an eye on their senior loved ones' daily routine and encourage maintaining a healthy lifestyle to enjoy a high quality of life in their golden years.