Common Health Problems for Older People

Ageing has its fair share of health issues. As you get old, the body and its organs don’t function as well as they used to. Years of working the body start to take a toll at some point in life. People will experience some common health issues at different periods. For some, ageing health complications may start after sixty and some may have the luxury of living longer without challenges. There are some common problems to expect as an individual gets old.

Heart Conditions

The heart is among the first organs that start giving out with age. Heart conditions have become very common across the globe. As a matter of fact, heart diseases top the list of cause of death in certain populations. Some lifestyles contribute to some conditions such as hypertension, congenital heart disease, arrhythmia, heart failure, and stroke.

Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's Disease, sometimes referred to simply as "Parkinson's" is a progressive nervous disease that impacts motor function and often results in the famous shaking arms symptom. Parkinsons is a disease in the brain that attacks the area of the brain responsible for deploying dopamine. Many modern scientific advances are helping those with Parkinson's to live more active and less inhibited lives but no cause or cure has yet been identified

Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s is another condition that seniors may have to deal with. The diagnosis of the condition is challenging, and some individuals develop it at an earlier age (early onset Alzheimer’s). The disease can impair cognitive functions, making it hard for an individual to take care of themselves.

Arthritis

About 65% of adults over the age of 65 suffer from arthritis. The condition causes painful joints and can have a great effect on a person’s ability to take part in normal activities. Various treatment options are available to help in its management.

Falls

Slip and falls are very common in ageing adults. Falls can cause hip injuries, broken limbs, sprains, and strains. As people age, their balance perception becomes impaired and that is what leads to slips and falls.

Depression

Old age does not only affect the body but the mind as well. Depression is another health issue that is common in a majority if seniors. An individual who is suffering from chronic conditions such as hypertension, cancer or diabetes is more susceptible to depression.

Diabetes

Ageing persons are also at risk of catching diabetes. However, the condition is a threat to individuals in all demographics. Prompt diagnosis and proper management of diabetes can help a person live with it.

Vision and Hearing Loss

The sense of sight and hearing get affected by old age. Some of the vision problems that come with old age include diabetes retinopathy, glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration. Hearing and vision loss can be a result of a medical condition or lifestyles choices.

Tips for Healthier Living

Some ways and practices can help prevent some of these common age-related issues. The most important is to make lifestyle changes. Bad habits such a smoking and drinking alcohol contribute to a lot of health problems. Cut down on alcohol intake and quit smoking. Exercising regularly allows the body to function optimally, so adopt a regimen that stretches out every part of the body. Mind exercises are also effective in keeping your mental health in check. Some health conditions result from stressing the body and mind too much, so finding time to relax will count a great deal.