Golden Years: 8 Common Senior Health Issues and Solutions Too

Due to trends in senior healthcare, we are living longer and more productive lives. While that is definitely good news, there are still certain health concerns that come with aging. Staying ahead of them can make a big difference in the quality of the senior years. 

Genetics plays a role in one’s overall health and certain illness or conditions. The lifestyle one chooses to live also has an impact on the overall health and well a person feels and functions. 

Read on for 8 of the most common senior health concerns and ways to manage or even prevent them. 

1. Falls

Falling is the most common reported injury in older Americans. While some falls are just an inconvenience or embarrassing, others can lead to serious or even traumatic injuries. 

Balance issues are a leading cause of these falls. Other culprits include poor eyesight. A weakened physical state due to illness or poor nutrition can also be a factor in someone being more likely to fall. 

Even side effects for medications used to treat other medical conditions can cause someone to become dizzy and fall. 

Help – If you believe your medications are causing dizziness, talk to your doctor. In addition, make your home as safe as possible.

Remove loose rugs and any electrical cords on the floor. Install handrails in the bathroom, shower, and even the doorway. Consider using a walker to help keep you steady. 

2. Depression and Isolation 

It is common as someone ages that they can no longer drive and their social interactions diminish. This can lead to feelings of isolation and then depression. Living alone can intensify these feelings. 

Certain medicines or combination of medicines can also bring out feelings of depression as a side effect. The loss of a loved one, a pet, a friend, or having to move from the family home are other causes for someone to feel overwhelmed and sad. 

Help –  If you, or someone you love, is experiencing feelings of extreme sadness or depression, talk to their doctor. It may be as simple as a medication change or even adding an anti-depressant.

If living alone is causing distress, consider a senior living facility where others are around and activities are provided. 

3. Sexual Dysfunction 

While some people don’t necessarily believe this, sexual activity can and should continue well into one’s senior years. Yes, some changes are required, but it is still a viable option. 

Loss of sexual function can be quite distressing, especially in men. The good news is this part of one’s life does not have to stop at a certain date. 

Help – There is help to understand this condition and you can find out more here. 

4. Memory Issues (Dementia/Alzheimer’s)

The one word most everyone dreads is Alzheimer’s. Losing your memories and being unfamiliar with the world around you is incredibly scary and sad. 

Being aware of the early signs of Alzheimer’s disease is vital to get ahead of it and prolong cognitive skills. Some memory loss is expected in the aging process, but when it affects daily tasks, speaking, and increased confusion it is time to take action. 

Help – There isn’t a fool-proof way to prevent or avoid this disease, but there are ways to improve senior mental health. Studies have shown staying active and engaged in life with an active social circle helps.

In addition, reading and keeping the brain active works. Once there has been a diagnosis, there are medications that improve the brain’s function. 

5. Diabetes  

Diabetes can strike at any age but is likely to show up as someone ages. The body has problems processing sugar and insulin production may also decrease. 

Genetics plays a role in the occurrence of diabetes in the senior years. The good news diabetes can be treated and managed and you or your loved one can live a long time with this condition. 

Help – If there is diabetes in the family history, you should have a doctor monitor your blood sugar levels as you age. Adopting a healthy diet and getting regular exercise will also help. Once diagnosed, there are medications, including insulin, that will regulate the blood sugar levels in the body. 

6. Senior Health – Osteoporosis

Bones grow weaker over time. They are designed to rebuild themselves, but for some, it takes longer to do. This results in back pain, a stooped posture, and even height loss for some. 

Certain thyroid conditions as well as liver conditions, arthritis, and even some stomach issues can lead to bone loss. Excessive alcohol and tobacco use will also worsen this condition. 

Help – Calcium is a great nutrient for strong bones, and it should be included in a healthy diet at all ages. Calcium supplements are encouraged as well.

One should also stay as active as possible and adopt a positive lifestyle. Of course, there are medications and procedures that will strengthen the bones. 

7. Senior Abuse

This is a subject no one wants to talk about, but it happens none the less. 

Senior abuse is a growing problem, especially within the senior home health care system. That certainly doesn’t mean there aren’t some great workers out there, but everyone should be mindful of what is going on. 

Help – If you are the victim of senior abuse, tell someone. If you suspect that someone is suffering from ill-treatment, take the steps to remove the abuser and alert the authorities. 

8. Heart Disease

No article about healthcare for seniors would be complete without the mention of heart disease. 

The act of aging itself puts a strain on the heart and the cardiovascular system. Blood pressure issues and poor circulation impact the effectiveness of this most vital function. 

Help – Diet, exercise, and proper medical attention are the keys to a healthy heart. The important note, however, is these must start at a young age. In most cases, heart problems can be delayed or improved, but not if one waits too late. 

Still Good News

While it is true there are many conditions that show up or worsen, as we age, there is still good news in regards to senior health.

With proper attention, preventive measures, regular doctor visits, and a positive attitude, a long life is not only possible, but it is also weirdly enjoyable!

For more articles and information on the weirder side of life, keep coming back!

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