As one ages, they may face health difficulties. However, understanding these typical persistent ailments can assist in preventing illness during the aging process.
The lifespan of individuals in America has increased significantly, with those reaching 65 years old expected to live an additional average of 19.3 years, as per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Maintaining good health in old age often involves effectively managing chronic illnesses. It is essential to make healthy lifestyle choices, such as weight loss and smoking cessation, along with being physically active and eating a healthy diet. Seeking guidance from a geriatrician, a specialist in age-related health issues, can also help individuals manage chronic conditions. By doing so, one can potentially become part of the 41% of individuals over the age of 65 who report having excellent or very good health, according to the CDC.
1. Arthritis
According to geriatrician Marie Bernard, MD, arthritis is the most common condition that people aged 65 or older face. The CDC estimates that it impacts almost half of all adults over 65, causing discomfort and reduced quality of life. Although arthritis can discourage physical activity, it’s crucial to collaborate with your doctor to create a tailored activity plan that, combined with other treatments, can assist in maintaining senior health.
2. Heart Disease
The CDC reports that heart disease is still the top cause of death for individuals over the age of 65, resulting in 489,722 fatalities in 2014. The Federal Interagency Forum on Aging-Related Statistics states that heart disease, as a chronic ailment, impacts 37% of men and 26% of women in this age group. The likelihood of developing heart disease or experiencing a stroke rises as individuals age and accumulate risk factors such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Dr. Bernard advocates for addressing this senior health concern by following a healthy lifestyle that includes exercise, nutritious eating, and sufficient sleep. Eating healthily entails maintaining a healthy weight through a well-balanced diet.
3. Cancer
The CDC states that cancer is the second leading cause of death in individuals over the age of 65, causing 413,885 deaths in 2014. The CDC also reports that 28% of men and 21% of women in this age group are currently living with cancer. Early detection of various cancers, such as through mammograms, colonoscopies, and skin checks, can increase the chances of successful treatment. While cancer cannot always be prevented, the quality of life for seniors with cancer can be improved by following healthy lifestyle recommendations and working closely with their medical team throughout treatment.
4. Respiratory Diseases
According to the CDC, chronic lower respiratory diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), caused 124,693 deaths among individuals aged 65 and older in 2014, making it the third most common cause of death in this age group. The Federal Interagency Forum on Aging-Related Statistics reports that about 10% of men and 13% of women in this age group are living with asthma, while 10% of men and 11% of women are living with chronic bronchitis or emphysema. Although having a chronic respiratory disease increases the risk of infections such as pneumonia, getting lung function tests and adhering to proper medication or oxygen usage can help preserve senior health and quality of life.
5. Alzheimer’s Disease
The CDC states that Alzheimer’s disease caused 92,604 deaths among individuals aged 65 and older in 2014. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, around 11% or one in nine people in this age group suffer from Alzheimer’s disease, but it is difficult to determine the exact number due to the challenging nature of diagnosis. Nevertheless, cognitive impairment significantly affects senior health in various ways, from safety and self-care concerns to the financial burden of care, whether at home or in a residential facility.
6. Osteoporosis
Dr. Bernard states that osteoporosis can cause mobility issues and potentially lead to disability if a person falls and fractures or experiences vertebral body collapse. The National Osteoporosis Foundation reports that approximately 54 million Americans aged 50 or older have low bone mass or osteoporosis, which increases their risk of fractures and can negatively impact senior health and quality of life. Furthermore, they predict that by the year 2020, this number will increase to 64.4 million.
7. Diabetes
The CDC reports that a quarter of individuals aged 65 and above have diabetes, which is a significant health risk for seniors. Diabetes caused 54,161 deaths among adults over the age of 65 in 2014, as per CDC data. Simple blood tests for blood sugar levels can help identify and address diabetes early. Identifying the disease early on enables individuals to make changes to control it and improve their long-term senior health prospects.
8. Influenza and Pneumonia
Despite not being chronic conditions, the flu and pneumonia are among the top eight causes of death in individuals over the age of 65, as per the CDC. Seniors are more susceptible to these infections and less capable of fighting them off. Senior healthcare guidelines suggest that seniors get an annual flu shot and the pneumonia vaccine if recommended by their healthcare provider to prevent these infections and their severe consequences.
9. Falls
The risk of falls requiring emergency room care increases with age. According to the CDC, each year, falls lead to emergency department treatment for 2.5 million people who are 65 years and older, which is more than any other age group. Furthermore, a study published in the American Journal of Emergency Medicine in August 2015 revealed that one-third of seniors who seek emergency room care for falls may find themselves back in the emergency room within a year. It’s worth noting that most falls occur at home, where potential tripping hazards such as area rugs and slippery bathroom floors exist, as per a study published in the Journal of Injury and Violence Research in January 2013.
10. Substance Abuse
According to an analysis of data from the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions, it was found that around 20 percent of people over 65 have a history of substance or alcohol abuse. Alcohol and tobacco were the most commonly abused nonmedical substances. Substance and alcohol abuse can be a senior health concern due to the potential interactions with prescription medication, their negative impact on overall health, and the increased risk of senior health issues such as falls associated with being under the influence.
11. Obesity
Obesity is a significant risk factor for heart disease, diabetes, and cancer, which are all chronic conditions that affect quality of life in older adults. As body weight increases, so does the risk of developing these diseases. According to the CDC, 36.2 percent of men and 40.7 percent of women aged 65 to 74 are considered obese, with a body mass index of 30 or greater. Obesity can also indicate a decrease in physical activity and mobility in older adults.
12. Depression
The American Psychological Association reports that depression affects 15 to 20 percent of Americans over 65, which poses a threat to senior health because it can weaken immunity and make it difficult to fight infections. Along with medication and therapy, seniors can improve their quality of life by increasing physical activity since 59.4 percent of adults aged 65 and older do not meet the CDC’s recommendations for exercise. Seniors can also benefit from more social interaction since they reportedly spend only 8 to 11 percent of their free time with family and friends, according to the Federal Interagency Forum on Aging-Related Statistics.
13. Oral Health
Maintaining healthy teeth and gums is vital for overall senior health, not just for aesthetics and eating purposes. According to the CDC, 25 percent of adults over the age of 65 do not have their natural teeth. As you age, cavities become harder to prevent due to the dryness of your mouth, so it is essential to prioritize proper oral health care, including routine dental checkups.
14. Poverty
A Kaiser Family Foundation report from 2015 revealed that 45 percent of adults aged 65 and above had incomes below the poverty level in 2013. This percentage was calculated based on various factors, such as available financial resources, liabilities, benefits, medical expenses, housing expenses, and other similar factors. According to the report, older women are more likely to be living in poverty than men, and this gap widens as they age. Single older adults also tend to live alone with fewer resources. Poverty can have a negative impact on senior health as it may prevent them from affording essential healthcare needs such as doctor visits and medication for chronic conditions.
15. Shingles
Shingles is a viral infection that can occur in adults who had chickenpox in their childhood. NIH reports that one-third of people over 60 will get shingles, and it is expected that 50 percent of all Americans will experience it before the age of 80. Shingles typically affects one side of the body, and starts with severe pain or tingling, which then progresses into an itchy rash and potentially blisters. However, a vaccine is available, and it is advisable to consult your physician about it.
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