recognize common health concerns in seniors early

As we age, our bodies change and weaken from a lifetime’s worth of wear and tear on joints, bones, and muscles. When individuals get into their 60s, most adults share similar fears about aging.

Many minor health conditions can cause annoyances and difficulty doing daily activities. The good news is that with caution and care you can manage health concerns and keep doing the things you love.

Falls

Falls are one of the primary health concerns for seniors. Hip fractures or head injuries from falls can cause serious health problems, as well as affect your ability to live without some help.

Falls can happen because of changes in balance, strength, or vision. Medications can also cause dizziness, especially when interacting with other prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, or supplements.

The best way to avoid falls is to exercise regularly to keep up your strength and improve balance. Have your doctor review all medications and supplements you are taking, and be sure your vision is checked regularly. To prevent falls around the house, look for tripping hazards like throw rugs, install grab bars in the bathroom, and make sure all stairs have firm railings.

Vision Problems

Having regular eye exams is important as you grow older, not only to make sure your glasses are up to date, but also to watch for eye disease.

Glaucoma and macular degeneration are the most common age-related eye disorders that cause trouble with vision. The earlier you catch problems, the better chance you have of retaining your vision.

Remember that problems like diabetes and high blood pressure can affect your vision, so managing chronic conditions is also important to your eyesight.

Seniors and Dementia

Dementia is a decline in memory and decision-making ability. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia in the elderly. Memory loss is the first sign of dementia, and the condition worsens over time. How quickly it happens is different for everyone, as is the cause.

Seniors and Incontinence

Leaking urine is a common concern or fear among older adults. It’s embarrassing and feels unclean when it happens, which makes many people feel self-conscious about reporting it. In many cases, incontinence is often a side effect of other disorders, such as strokes, Alzheimer’s, or urinary tract infections.

Leaking also happens frequently in women when their pelvic muscles relax, such as when sneezing or laughing. These muscles weaken over time from childbirth and aging. Kegel exercises can help strengthen those muscles and reduce incontinence.

Arthritis and Seniors

Osteoarthritis is common in older adults as the cartilage in your joints wears away. Your joints begin to feel stiff and painful, and may even swell.

Exercising, keeping your weight under control, and following a healthy diet are the best ways to manage arthritis. If the pain becomes too much, talk with your doctor about medications and other options.

Proper management of chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease is important to avoiding common health concerns in seniors. Work with your doctor to manage medications, develop an exercise plan, and follow a healthy diet to stay fit and active.

 

Editor's Note: This gallery was originally published on , and was last reviewed on .