As we age, our bodies naturally go through changes that can affect our physical and mental health. Although ageing is a part of life, it’s important to be aware of the common health concerns that may arise to ensure you stay healthy and active as you grow older. This article will provide an overview of some of the most common health concerns that come with age and how to address them. Keep reading to learn more.
Arthritis
Arthritis is one of the most common health concerns associated with ageing. There are over 100 different types of arthritis; however, the most common forms are rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and psoriatic arthritis. It’s a condition that involves inflammation of the joints, causing pain and stiffness, with approximately 10 million people diagnosed in the UK with the condition. The treatment you get will depend on the type of arthritis you have, but if you notice your joints start to ache and become painful, your doctor can help you determine the cause and which treatments will benefit you.
Diabetes
Diabetes is another common health concern among older adults. There are two primary forms of diabetes, categorised as type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system targets the cells that produce insulin. On the other hand, Type 2 diabetes is a condition where the body’s ability to produce or use insulin is impaired. Type 2 is also a form of diabetes that can be caused by a combination of lifestyle factors, such as poor diet and lack of exercise.
Diabetes is a serious condition, so it is important to know how to manage it, which can include everything from insulin and oral hypoglycemic agents to eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly. To learn more about the condition, head over to Making Diabetes Easier and check out their expert advice to help make living with diabetes easier.
High Blood Pressure
Also known as hypertension, high blood pressure is a common issue that can put significant strain on your organs and blood vessels, leaving you at a higher risk of other medical conditions such as heart disease, vascular dementia, kidney disease, and strokes. It can be caused by lifestyle factors and medical conditions alike, including smoking, being overweight, being in high-stress environments, and diabetes. Treatments for hypertension typically comprise of a mix of lifestyle changes and medications such as blood thinners, reducing the amount of salt you eat, cutting back on alcohol, diuretics and beta blockers.
Hearing Loss
Hearing loss is a common health concern for people as they get older, and it’s estimated that around 40% of people in the UK over 50 suffer from some form of hearing loss. Hearing loss can be caused by a number of factors, including age, exposure to loud sounds, genetics, and head trauma. To manage hearing loss, you can visit an audiologist or hearing specialist for a hearing test. Hearing aids may be prescribed to help improve hearing. Additionally, there are a number of lifestyle modifications that can help to preserve hearing, such as wearing ear protectors in loud environments.
