Lowering Your Risk for Various Health Concerns

The body and mind undergo many changes with age. And unfortunately, many of those changes increase the risk for various health concerns. While health changes are an inevitable part of aging, understanding common health concerns and how to lower your risks can significantly improve your overall health and well-being.

What are common health concerns for seniors?

A person may experience many health conditions throughout life, but a few commonly diagnosed conditions in seniors include hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis. 

Hypertension 

Hypertension, also called high blood pressure, is when blood puts too much pressure on the vessel walls. Hypertension doesn’t cause symptoms, and many individuals are unaware they have high blood pressure. People can get hypertension at any age, but it’s most common among older adults, especially those who are overweight, have a high-salt diet, or are physically inactive. Doctors can help people reduce their blood pressure through medications and lifestyle changes, but if left untreated, it can lead to serious health complications.

Heart disease

Heart disease describes numerous conditions affecting the heart, but it is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. The most common heart disease is coronary artery disease (CAD). CAD occurs when plaque builds up in the arteries that supply the heart with blood. The plaque causes the blood pathway to narrow, often leading to chest pains or a heart attack if not treated. Additional signs and symptoms include light-headedness, arm and shoulder pain, cold sweats, and shortness of breath.

Diabetes

Diabetes is a condition that affects how your body produces or uses insulin. The most common type of diabetes, especially among older adults, is Type 2, affecting about 37 million Americans. When you have Type 2 diabetes, your body is insulin resistant, meaning it doesn’t respond properly to insulin. There are often no noticeable signs or symptoms of Type 2 diabetes, so it’s important to check your blood sugar, especially if you are older than 45, have a family history of diabetes, or are physically inactive. 

Arthritis

Arthritis is a term that refers to any type of joint pain from inflammation or swelling. Many seniors develop osteoarthritis, also called wear-and-tear arthritis. It most commonly develops in the hands, knees, and hips. Because of the swelling around the affected joint, many people with arthritis experience pain, stiffness, and a decreased range of motion. 

How can I reduce my risk for common health concerns?

Many factors contribute to your risk for various health conditions. Still, some of the best things you can do for your overall health are to keep up with doctor appointments, exercise, reduce your tobacco and alcohol intake, and work with professionals to help you lead a healthier life. 

Visit your doctor

Some health conditions, such as hypertension, don’t cause symptoms, and you cannot know if you have it unless you get a blood pressure reading from your doctor. Your doctors can also help you monitor risks and inform you if there are other health conditions you should be working to prevent. 

All aspects of your health are important to reduce your risk of common health concerns. In addition to your primary doctor, you’ll also want to ensure you’re keeping up with dentist appointments, dermatology exams, hearing tests, and eye exams. 

Exercise

Inactivity increases your risk for diabetes, heart disease, and other serious health conditions. Exercise decreases your risk of common health concerns by improving your cardiovascular system, strengthening your muscles, and improving blood flow. Exercise is also a wonderful way to reduce stress and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. 

Incorporating exercise into your routine doesn’t mean committing to hour-long, high-intensity daily workouts. Instead, try 20-30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise at least three days a week. Activities include brisk walks, hiking, biking, dancing, and swimming. 

Don’t smoke tobacco or drink alcohol 

There are no benefits to using tobacco or drinking alcohol, and both significantly increase your risk for many health conditions. Unfortunately, tobacco and alcohol are also both addictive substances, and limiting their use may be challenging, especially if it’s something you’ve been doing for years. But no matter your age or dependency, it’s never too late to seek help and change your tobacco and alcohol habits. 

Work with professionals 

Lifestyle changes are challenging to make and maintain on your own, but working with a trained professional can help you live a healthier life. 

Dietitians 

What you eat plays a significant role in how you feel. But finding the right things to eat can get challenging as you age. Many older adults experience changing dietary needs as they age, especially when living with a chronic health condition like diabetes. Navigating the ins and outs of diet is difficult even with people who don’t have food restrictions, but working with a registered dietitian can take the guesswork out of your diet and help you find the foods you need to stay healthy.

Mental health professionals 

Depression and anxiety are two of the most common mental health conditions affecting Americans, even older adults. Discussing your mental health, or even admitting that you may have depression or anxiety symptoms, is challenging, but it’s never too late to seek help. Many mental health professionals are available for numerous treatments, whether talk therapy, group therapy, or medication. 

Caregivers 

Seniors needing nonmedical assistance with daily living activities can hire a professional caregiver to help them age independently at home. The professional caregivers at Visiting Angels offer at-home care, including personal grooming, medication reminders, meal preparations, light housekeeping, and mobility assistance. We also have specialized caregivers to provide dementia and transitional care to help seniors return home after a hospital stay. 

Our Ravenna office works with seniors throughout Portage, Geauga, and Southern Cuyahoga counties of Ohio. You can learn more about how our services can improve your well-being and lower your risk of common health concerns by scheduling a free consultation. Call us at 330.297.2000.