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As people age, they face many health problems that come with the territory. One of the most common health concerns faced by seniors is increased vulnerability to certain illnesses and health conditions. Additionally, many health problems that were once considered only to affect younger people can now also affect seniors. It’s important to be aware of the most common health concerns for seniors so that you can take steps to prevent them. Keep reading to learn more.
Dementia
Dementia is a general term used to describe a decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily life. Symptoms can include memory loss, difficulty thinking or problem solving, impaired judgment, and changes in mood and behavior. Dementia affects people of all ages, but it becomes more common as we get older. There is no one cause of dementia, but risk factors include age, family history, head injury, and diseases like Alzheimer’s and stroke. There is no cure for dementia, but there are memory care treatments that can help improve the quality of life for patients and caregivers.
Urinary Incontinence
Urinary incontinence (UI) is a common health concern for seniors. UI can result in leakage of urine, which can cause embarrassment, social isolation, and even physical injuries. UI can also lead to health problems such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) and skin irritation. There are a number of treatments available for UI, depending on the cause. If the UI is caused by a medical condition, the condition may need to be treated by urology services in Staten Island, NY, or those in your area in order to improve UI. If the UI is caused by muscle weakness, exercises may help to strengthen the muscles. If the UI is caused by medication side effects, the medication may need to be changed. If the UI is caused by lifestyle factors, such as drinking too much caffeine or alcohol, making lifestyle changes may help.
Diabetes
In the United States, diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases among seniors. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 25 percent of adults aged 65 and older have diabetes.1 Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes in seniors. This occurs when the body doesn’t use insulin properly or when the pancreas doesn’t make enough insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps the body turn food into energy. If diabetes is not managed properly, it can lead to a number of health problems, including heart disease, stroke, nerve damage, kidney disease, and blindness. Seniors with diabetes should take steps to manage their blood sugar levels and protect their health.
Sleep Disorders
Sleep is important for everyone, but it’s especially crucial for seniors. As you age, your sleep patterns change, and you will tend to get less restful sleep. This can lead to a host of health problems, including cognitive decline, heart disease, and diabetes. There are a few things you can do to get the most out of your sleep as a senior. First, make sure you’re going to bed and waking up at the same time every day. Establishing a routine will help your body regulate its natural sleep rhythm. Also, avoid caffeine and alcohol before bedtime—both substances can interfere with your ability to fall asleep and stay asleep. Finally, make sure your sleeping environment is comfortable and conducive to good sleep. Keep the room cool and dark, and use a noise machine or earplugs if necessary to drown out extraneous noise.
Overall, understanding the most common health concerns for seniors is important to address in order to maintain a high quality of life. By being aware of these issues and taking the appropriate steps to address them, seniors can enjoy a healthier and more fulfilling retirement.