Unexpected Health Concerns as We Age

Unexpected Health Concerns as We Age
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Old age comes with a few challenges, but that does not mean that you do not enjoy life. However, it is vital to remember that you must always be proactive about your health since, at this age, you are more vulnerable to various conditions. Read on to learn about the health conditions you are likely to face:

1.  High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is a common ailment encountered in older adults, and it further exposes them to heart diseases and stroke. The arteries tend to become rigid and less elastic as you get older, thus increasing blood pressure. However, this condition is manageable if you know how to manage your stress, exercise, check your weight, stop smoking and adopt healthy eating habits.

2.  High Cholesterol

Cholesterol is also linked to high blood pressure and is another major contributor to heart failure. Similar to blood pressure, blood vessels become clogged up with cholesterol which causes plaque over time and blocks smooth blood flow. It is necessary to maintain a good lifestyle, especially involving proper diet and exercise.

3.  Diabetes

Diabetes is a prevalent condition for the older generation, but few cases have been noted even amongst the younger generation. Diabetes is caused by a high amount of sugar or glucose in your blood. It may cause further complications that further damage the kidney, nerves, eyes, and nerves.

In extreme conditions, it can lead to stroke if not well-managed. Before one is formally diagnosed with diabetes, they may experience extreme hunger or thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and blurry eyesight. If you encounter any of those signs, get a checkup.

4.  Arthritis

Arthritis seems to be a more prevalent condition in women than men. The common types of arthritis are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, but the latter is more common, especially amongst seniors. It begins when the protective cartilage in the joints, especially on the hands, knees, hips, and spine, starts to wear out. This condition makes regular movements like walking unbearable. One can identify arthritis by experiencing constant joint pains and inflammation around the joints.

5.  Eyesight Problems

We may take things like being able to see well casually, but once we get into old age, so do our eyes. However, conditions like diabetes and glaucoma may also cause sight problems; thus, the treatment is also dependent on the cause.

Please seek medical advice if you notice symptoms such as blurred vision, loss of color vision, double vision, and chronic eye pains. Impaired vision may also cause loss of independence in seniors due to the huge risk factors of falls; therefore, you must not ignore any symptoms attributed to eyesight problems.

6.  Cognitive Impairment

Cognitive impairment is often linked to memory loss. Older people often have a decreased blood flow to the brain, which leads to irregular protection and repair of the brain cells responsible for maintaining cognitive skills.

Mild cognitive impairment increases the risk of developing other common neurological conditions linked to Alzheimer’s and dementia. Some of the common symptoms of cognitive impairment mainly involve forgetfulness of people and things, losing track in conversations, and having trouble maneuvering even in a familiar environment.

7.  Cancer

Cancer has no particular origin, but it could have come from exposure to cancer-causing agents. Though the survival rates have improved over time, it is generally lower for older people. Smoking has been linked to being one of the leading causes. One can avoid cancer by making significant lifestyle changes, especially in food and physical activity. 

As seen above, you can avoid most of these conditions by shifting to practicing healthier lifestyle habits. As soon as you feel any unusual symptoms, ensure that you get a checkup to identify and get the recommended advice from the medical professionals.

About the Author

Jenn Walker is a freelance writer, blogger, dog-enthusiast, and avid beachgoer operating out of Southern New Jersey. She frequently works with health and lifestyle clients, including medical spas and senior living campuses.


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I am a pop culture and social media expert. Aside from writing about the latest news health, I also enjoy pop culture and Yoga. I have BA in American Cultural Studies and currently enrolled in a Mass-Media MA program. I like to spend my spring breaks volunteering overseas.

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