As people are living longer than ever, they need to carefully manage chronic conditions in order to stay healthy. Making healthy lifestyle choices can help you avoid senior health risks. Two of the key decisions you can make to improve your health include remaining physically active and eating a healthy diet.
Here are the top health issues seniors need to be concerned with.
Arthritis
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that arthritis affects more than 49 percent of adults over 65 and can lead to pain and lower quality of life. While it can discourage you from being active, it is critical to work with your doctor to develop a personalized activity plan that helps you maintain your health and address the pain of arthritis.
Heart Disease
The CDC states that heart disease remains the leading killer of adults over 65. As we age, we increasingly live with risk factors, such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol, both which increase the chances of having a stroke or heart disease. Geriatrician Dr. Marie Bernard advised “Exercise, eat well, get a good night’s rest.” And, of course, one should see a doctor regularly to monitor the state of your heart’s health.
Cancer
According to the CDC, cancer is the second leading cause of death among people over 65. More than 20 percent of people in that age group are living with cancer. If caught early through medical screenings – mammograms, colonoscopies, skin checks – you can improve your quality of life as a senior living with cancer.
Respiratory Diseases
The CDC reports that chronic lower respiratory diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), are the third most common cause of death among people over 65. With other diseases such as asthma and emphysema affecting seniors, getting lung function tests, taking the correct medicine or using oxygen as instructed, will go a long way toward preserving senior health and your quality of life.
With Alzheimer’s disease, osteoporosis and diabetes next on the list, there is no shortage of health issues about which seniors need to be concerned. By being aware of these common chronic conditions, you are best poised to take steps necessary to help stave off diseases as you age. Then, you too can be among the 41 percent of people over 65 who say their health is very good or excellent, according to the CDC.