As we age, numerous health issues will be experienced. Some of the more negative effects can be slowed or prevented by some means. Socialization, meditation, a healthy diet, and light exercise can go a long way toward warding off many of the side effects of aging.
Here, we are going to explore some of the most common health problems where our loved ones are concerned.
Shingles
Before they are 80, shingles will be experienced by approximately half of all Americans. For those over 60, about one in three adults get shingles. Fortunately, vaccines are available.
Oral Health
Approximately one-fourth of 65-year-olds and up do not have natural teeth, in part because cavities are difficult to prevent due to the mouth becoming drier as people age.
Depression
Depression is experienced by approximately 15% to 20% of Americans over 65. The ability of a person to fight infections can be lowered because of the increased health threat depression creates.
Obesity
Cancer, diabetes, and heart disease are more likely for those suffering from obesity. For adults between 65 and 74 years of age, 40.7% of women and 36.2% of men are obese. Part of this is because there is reduced activity in aging.
Substance Abuse
For people over 65, approximately one in five will have an alcohol abuse or substance abuse problem at some time. Abused nonmedical substances are most commonly tobacco and alcohol.
Falls
For older people who have been to an emergency room as a result of experiencing a fall, approximately one-third will be back again for the same reason within a year.
Pneumonia and Influenza
For people over 65, pneumonia and influenza are two of the top eight causes of death. Because they are less able to fight them off, seniors are more vulnerable to these conditions.
Alzheimer’s Disease
For the population over the age of 65, approximately 11% of them have Alzheimer’s disease. It’s hard to know exactly how many people are actually living with this condition because it can be challenging to diagnose.
Respiratory Distress
For people over 65, the third most common cause of death is COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and other chronic lower respiratory diseases. In fact, 13% of women and 10% of men are living with asthma. Additionally, 11% of women and 10% of men are living with emphysema or chronic bronchitis.
Cancer
Among people over 65, the second leading cause of death is cancer. For people in this age group, 21% of women and 28% of men are living with cancer. Though not always preventable, there are many treatments available today, and more are being discovered every day.
Heart Disease
For people over 65, 26% of women and 37% of men have chronic heart disease. The chances of developing heart disease or having a stroke increase with age due to risk factors such as high cholesterol and high blood pressure.
A Healthy Mind, Body, and Spirit at Spring Mill
With numerous opportunities for socialization, healthy meals, activities, professional medical assistance, and more at Spring Mill, your loved one can’t help but be happier, healthier, and more fulfilled.
Contact us if you have any questions or, better yet, schedule a tour.
