As people age, it is more important to monitor potential health problems. Even though health concerns may appear at any age, seniors are more prone to a variety of conditions. Eating a balanced diet, getting exercise, and keeping in touch with your peers are three of the most beneficial things you can do for your own well-being.
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Here are the four most common health concerns that seniors should look out for:
1. Heart Disease
Heart disease is one of the leading killer diseases affecting most adults aged 65 and above. Sadly, this disease can also lead to other health problems like high blood pressure and stroke. As per CDC, almost half of Americans live with risk factors that can increase the possibility of heart diseases, like smoking, unhealthy cholesterol levels, and high blood pressure.
Seniors need to ensure that they eat well, stay active, have a good night's rest, and manage high blood pressure, among other conditions. Eating well means maintaining a balanced and healthy diet that will allow seniors to keep a healthy weight.
2. Arthritis
Although there are different kinds of arthritis, osteoarthritis is the most common among seniors. Older adults, mostly aged 60 and above with this disease, have joint pains and limitations of motion. Osteoarthritis mostly affects weight-bearing joints, and it's mostly associated with breaking down or wearing away of the joints.
Therapy is recommended for seniors with osteoarthritis to reduce pain and its impact on the quality of life. Joint care, weight control, surgery, medicine, rest, and some exercises are effective treatment options that relieve pain and disability.
3. Cancer
Statistics from CDC show that cancer is the second leading cause of death among seniors above 65 years, with 2020 registering up to 602,350 deaths. The most effective way of detecting cancer in its early stages is through regular screening such as colonoscopies, skin checks, and mammograms. This way, you have a higher chance of treating cancer.
Although you may not always be in a position where you can prevent cancer in a senior, you have a chance to improve their quality of life. This can include working with specialists in the medical field who can recommend the right diet, physical activities, and treatment options for seniors.
4. Respiratory Diseases
A significant number of seniors also suffer from respiratory diseases, with COPD being among the most prevalent killer diseases for those aged 65 and older. Respiratory diseases make seniors more vulnerable to other illnesses and infections that put them at an even greater risk.
Doctors should make several screening processes, such as a lung function test, which helps determine the risk of these illnesses. Taking the right medication also goes a long way in improving a senior's health and quality of life. If you have a loved one who is a senior, you must also be vigilant about certain infections such as a cold or flu. Pneumonia can become a life-threatening condition among seniors within a short period.
If a loved one has one of the above conditions, giving them the right care is paramount. However, your busy schedule may not always give you ample time to focus on your seniors, so investing in a retirement community would give them the quality care they deserve. Sarasota Bay Club in Sarasota, Florida offers first-class amenities and outstanding services to seniors for the ideal retirement lifestyle. Get in touch with us today for more details about a move to our retirement community.
