Aging is a natural part of life, and as you grow older your body will change in a number of ways. You may also have a higher chance of developing new health concerns as you head into your senior years, such as cognitive decline, problems with balance, decreased bone health, and increased heart disease risk. The good news is that it’s possible to help mitigate ill effects when you’re armed with the right knowledge. Accordingly, here are a few concerns to keep in mind as you get older:
Most people experience some level of cognitive decline as they grow older, such as slowed-down thinking or problems with memory. Others will experience more serious effects, such as the dementia symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s and other cognitive disorders. In addition to happening naturally, cognitive decline can also accompany medical disorders and medications. In the event, you struggle with memory loss, get lost in familiar places, or experience an inability to perform routine tasks, talk with a physician right away. A doctor may be able to help you slow the rate of decline and improve cognition.
As explained by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, falls are the leading cause of injury and injury death for Americans aged 65 and older. A damaging fall can result in broken bones, head injuries, and many other serious health effects. And in many instances, balance issues are to blame for senior falls. Problems with balance can occur for all sorts of reasons, including:
Dizziness upon immediately standing, having an unsteady gait and feeling like you can’t control your body when walking all signal that you’re experiencing a balance issue. In this case, it’s best to contact a doctor right away to determine the underlying cause.
Osteoporosis is a condition that affects many older adults, especially women. When you have osteoporosis, bone tissue will regenerate at a much slower rate, which reduces bone mass. As a result, you’ll have a higher risk of bone fractures, which are often debilitating for seniors. In addition to undergoing bone density testing once every two years or so, you can also boost bone health by taking vitamin D and calcium supplements.
According to the National Institute on Aging, people aged 65 and older have a higher risk of heart attacks, strokes, and heart disease. This heightened risk results from changes to the heart and blood vessels, which is a part of the aging process. However, you can help offset this risk by leading a healthy lifestyle. Eating wholesome, nutritious food, exercising regularly, and stopping smoking can all help keep your health well into your golden years. You should also schedule an appointment with a medical provider immediately if you experience symptoms of heart disease, such as pain or heaviness in the chest.
Keep in mind that you know your body better than anyone. As a result, you must schedule an appointment with a doctor if you experience new symptoms or believe that your health is in decline. Doing so allows you to exert greater control over your health and wellness, as well as find the proper treatment for what ails you. You can also use new technology to ensure a proactive approach to health issues.
The free DrOwl app makes it easier than ever to manage your health needs, which is crucial to aging in place. In addition to sharing your unique medical history with others, including loved ones, caregivers, and doctors, this app also provides access to physician-trusted resources about your specific conditions. You can also easily add your medical information from healthcare providers like VA hospitals, Medicare, and thousands of other providers. Having better control over your medical needs and a better understanding of your health can help you to get better care and outcomes, no matter your age.
