Imagine standing in front of the mirror combing your hair and finding greys or suddenly noticing wrinkles around your eyes. There’s nothing to worry about; these are signs of ageing. While ageing is inevitable, with age come health issues. Daily activities that were once a piece of cake become a challenge. It is not something you or anyone else can escape, but you can take measures to maintain good health.
Common Health Problems in Elderly: 7 Issues to Know
- Hepatitis: Referred to as the inflammatory condition of the liver, hepatitis is the result of a viral infection. There are other causes of hepatitis. However, ageing has been shown to enhance the vulnerability to acute liver diseases. Studies have shown that liver functions deteriorate with age, as the regenerative capacity of the liver correlates with liver function.
- Diabetes: This medical condition can develop at any age, but the elderly are more prone to it. This condition occurs when the blood sugar in your body is too high, making it difficult for your body to process and use the glucose from the food you consume. There are a few types of diabetes, but type 2 diabetes most commonly occurs in elders aged 45 or older.
- Heart Diseases: This is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, both in men and women. As you age, there will be a few typical changes in the heart and circulation system; your heart will have to work harder to pump blood and ageing pigment, to name a few. But anything other than that can lead to heart diseases. While the elderly are more at risk, there are ways you can lower the risk of heart disease. Include a healthy diet, exercise daily, quit smoking and reduce stress levels.
- Alzheimer’s: As you age, your brain stores information very different from how it used to when you were younger. While it is perfectly normal to find it difficult to recall names and recent events, it is not normal if you cannot remember minute things such as recipes and directions. If an elderly shows signs of Alzheimer’s, you should consult your doctor immediately.
- Arthritis: When the fluid and cartilage in a joint wear out, bones tend to scrape against one another, causing pain. One of the most common forms of arthritis in older adults is osteoarthritis (affects joints in the hand, spine, knees and hips), causing extreme pain and discomfort. However, arthritis of any kind can cause excruciating pain and impact the quality of life. But with the proper treatment, you can get better.
- High Blood Pressure: While various reasons can put you at the risk of high blood pressure or hypertension, ageing also has a part. Thankfully, there is nothing to be worried about. A few lifestyle changes such as exercising regularly, quitting smoking and alcohol, and reducing stress levels can help maintain your blood pressure.
- Constipation: Bathroom issues such as constipation are prevalent among the elderly. The lack of fibre in your diet, physical activity and dehydration, among other things, are the primary reasons for constipation. However, there is a never-ending list of home remedies that will help you have an easy bowel movement. But if this happens frequently, it is best to consult your doctor.
Ageing is inevitable, and so are health issues. However, it would help if you were not spending time worrying about your health and missing out on life. This list of health problems will help you keep track of your health and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Handling your health and household chores at a time can be daunting. Move to Primus Senior Living homes in Bangalore and live a carefree life. Our retirement homes in Bangalore and Chennai provide seniors with excellent healthcare facilities that include 24/7 ambulance service, skilled nurses and doctors, etc. Your health is our priority. Contact us today to know more about our retirement communities in Bangalore and Chennai!
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