Top 5 Health Concerns for Seniors

Learning more about some of the health concerns for seniors can help you to consider new ways to stay as healthy as possible. You might want to make adjustments to your lifestyle to avoid certain common health conditions. Making sure that your quality of life is achievable can be good fun!

Your family history, age and lifestyle play a large role in your risk of medical conditions. However, making some smart, healthy choices now can provide rewards later. Visit your doctor for regular screening and to take advantage of immunisations offered to you by qualified health professionals.

Some of the most common health problems in later years are discussed here for guidance. Perhaps looking after your health could form part of a group activity. Friends can be motivating when you want to enjoy staying healthy together. And you never know when helping others might help you with your long term health too!

The NHS has useful information online to help you understand early symptoms, signs and the actions you could choose. Here are some to consider:

Cognitive decline.

Some memory loss is common from any age, mid-life or later. However, it's important to recognise early warning signs of something more significant and treatable. Early intervention and treatment for conditions such as Alzheimer's are vital. Consultants work with patients to slow down the progression of the disease.

Balance and mobility.

Having a fall is a leading cause of injury. Can age-related muscle weakness be prevented? There are some interesting articles & reports on the National Osteoporosis Foundation website. The evidence shows that low bone mass, or osteoporosis, affects millions of us over 50 years old. Injuries can lead to longer-term problems. Maintaining your ability to balance unaided supports mobility. Keeping your muscle strength could help you to make fall prevention a priority. Perhaps find exercises that you like doing at home or join classes that suit you.

Heart disease.

Heart disease is a leading concern for seniors. There are many stories of sudden heart failure cases in news headlines. Although some medical conditions cause high risks, there's day to day simple steps currently recommended by the NHS. Do you like taking care of your diet? Perhaps you might want to explore new vegetable recipes. Maybe one of your favourite recipes could include lentils instead of red meat? Can you ask your local health centre whether they have some diet sheets that target a low cholesterol maintenance plan that is suitable for you?

Type 2 Diabetes and Related Conditions.

The 2020 global pandemic heightened awareness of how type 2 diabetes can make us more vulnerable to viruses, respiratory conditions and their effects. There were some reports of organ failure as patients struggled to breathe. An estimated 25% of adults over 65 have type 2 diabetes. If you think you might be at risk of diabetes, then you can get help. The professionals are there to help us all to avoid more severe complications, such as pneumonia, weakened immune systems or poor circulation and limb loss.

Vision and Hearing Loss

Getting regular eye tests and hearing tests are vital from childhood through to old age. There are specific eye issues affecting millions of older adults. Experiencing hearing loss can also affect your quality of life.

The statements in this article are not a diagnosis, treatment, prevention or cure for any of the conditions mentioned. We don't guarantee or warrant the accuracy, completeness, and usefulness of the information. We hope you've found something of interest to encourage you to seek the latest up-to-date advice from your general practise doctor or NHS specialist nursing team. Consult your doctor for specific medical advice or before you make lifestyle changes.

If you or a loved one requires additional at home care, domiciliary care or care assistance the contact Local Homecare today, our local carers are based across Yorkshire and provide professional at home care to residents across Yorkshire.