Because of the natural aging process, you become more susceptible to various illnesses. Due to the severity of their symptoms, several of these diseases and disorders may severely compromise our ability to go about our regular lives. Here are the six potential health problems that might arise with age and some medical guidance on handling them.
The Science Behind Aging
Time-accumulating molecular and cellular damage causes aging. These variables cause a steady deterioration in health and cognition, an increased risk of major disease, and death. These changes are neither consistent nor linear and are only indirectly connected to chronological age, and variety in old age is intentional. Retirement, upgrading housing, and social isolation are typical outcomes of aging.
The Underlying Mechanisms of Aging
The buildup of molecular and cellular damage over time is the cornerstone of aging’s complicated biological underpinnings. This causes a slow but steady deterioration in health, cognitive function, and lifespan. There is little correlation between these alterations and one’s actual age.
Six Age-Related Health Concerns and How to Treat Them
Arthritis
Millions of individuals throughout the globe, especially those over the age of 65, have arthritis. Inflammation in the joints is the hallmark of this illness, which manifests itself clinically as discomfort, immobility, and disfigurement.
Arthritis may affect every joint and comes in several types, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. See a back and spine specialist in Phoenix for joint pain and stiffness.
Osteoporosis
Having osteoporosis makes your bones more brittle and susceptible to breaks. Women are more likely to be affected by this ailment than males, and until a fracture develops, there may be no symptoms.
Osteoporosis is diagnosed by a bone density test, and treatment often consists of medication to stop or slow bone loss or increase bone density. Fractures may need surgical intervention in extreme circumstances.
Cardiovascular System Disorders
Disorders of the heart and blood vessels include coronary artery disease, heart failure, and arrhythmias. Age-related risk factors for cardiovascular disease include hypertension, dyslipidemia, and inactivity.
Preventing or controlling cardiovascular disease requires a commitment to a healthy lifestyle, which should include physical activity, balanced meals, and medication if indicated by a doctor.
Dementia
The loss of cognitive faculties such as memory, language, and reasoning is called dementia. Dementia may be brought on by several different factors, and the most well-known include Hypertension, Alzheimer’s disease, and dementia of the Lewy body.
Being that there is currently no cure for dementia, care is focused on easing symptoms and enhancing the quality of life for both the patient and their loved ones. If you have any discomfort in your spine or back due to these shifts in mobility, an expert in these areas may help you cope with it, too.
Adult-Onset Diabetes
High blood sugar levels are a symptom of type 2 diabetes, which impairs the body’s ability to utilize glucose. Older persons, especially those who are overweight or have a history of diabetes in their families, are at increased risk for this illness. The level of blood sugar in persons with diabetes of the type 2 variety may be managed with a combination of medication and dietary changes.
Lack of Auditory Perception
Hearing loss is common in people who are older than the age of 65 Exposure to loud noise, heredity, and age-related changes to the inner ear have all been linked to the slow onset of this illness. Hearing aids and other treatments for hearing loss may be discussed and recommended by an audiologist, who will also assess the extent of your hearing loss.
Additional Health Issues Associated with Getting Older
People may suffer many additional age-related health issues as they age beyond the six problems we’ve just covered. Among them are:
Alteration of Eyesight
Vision loss as we age may have a devastating effect on our freedom and quality of life, thanks to conditions including cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.
The Problem of Accidental Wetting of the Bed
Older persons, especially women, often have urinary incontinence for a combination of reasons, including weakening pelvic muscles and nerve damage.
Abnormalities of the Skin
Thinner, drier, and less elastic skin makes us more vulnerable to injury and illness as we age.
Condition of Teeth
Tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental disorders may negatively influence a person’s general health and well-being, so it’s important to practice excellent oral hygiene and visit a dentist regularly to avoid these issues.
Final Word
As you age, your chance of having a range of conditions that might reduce your quality of life increases. As you age, medical professionals can help alleviate and contain many of these ailments. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and minimizing risk factors should be prioritized. Preventative interventions will also safeguard elderly health.
