As people age, their risk of developing specific diseases increases. This is due to various factors, such as changes in lifestyle and diet, a decrease in the body’s ability to fight off infection, and accumulating damage to cells and tissues over time. Below is a list of the five most common diseases that affect seniors and some tips for preventing them.
Heart disease
The heart is responsible for many vital functions, such as pumping blood and delivering oxygen to the body’s cells. Over time, however, the heart can become damaged for various reasons. This can then lead to heart disease.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States. However, seniors can reduce their risk of heart disease by maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, and managing conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes.
Cancer
Cells are essential to human life. However, they can form tumors when they mutate and grow out of control. Cancer is the second leading cause of death for seniors in the United States. The most common types of cancer among seniors are breast cancer, colorectal cancer, prostate cancer, and skin cancer. To reduce your cancer risk, maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, eat a healthy diet, avoid tobacco use, and get regular cancer screenings.
Stroke
Blood vessels to the brain can become blocked or narrowed, causing a stroke. A stroke can lead to permanent brain damage and is the fifth leading cause of death for seniors. It occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted. Seniors can reduce their risk of stroke by maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, managing conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes, and avoiding tobacco use.
Alzheimer’s disease
Mental disorders are also common among seniors. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia among seniors. It is characterized by memory loss, difficulty reasoning and communicating, and changes in behavior. There is no sure way to prevent Alzheimer’s disease, but you may be able to reduce your risk by maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, and getting regular mental stimulation through activities such as reading or doing puzzles.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
The lungs are an essential part of the human body. When it comes to seniors, one of the most common lung diseases is COPD. This is a progressive disease that makes it hard to breathe. Some risk factors.
It is caused by exposure to certain irritants such as tobacco smoke. Seniors can reduce their risk of COPD by avoiding tobacco smoke and other irritants (such as chemical fumes), vaccinating against influenza and pneumonia, and avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke.
Though seniors are at an increased risk for developing certain diseases due to aging, many things can be done to prevent or slow down their progression. They can even reduce their chances of getting these diseases by following the tips below!
Get Disability Benefits
The United States government gives disability benefits to individuals suffering from a long-term illness or injury that prevents them from working. You may be eligible for these benefits if you’re a senior and have been diagnosed with any of the common diseases mentioned above. One of the essential benefits you should get is disability benefits for mental disorders. Mental disorders such as Alzheimer’s can be crippling, especially once you’ve advanced to the later stages of the disease. Ensure that you get your benefits before that happens.
Join a Senior Center
Most communities have senior centers where older adults can socialize, participate in activities, and receive support and services. This can be an excellent way to stay active and connected, which can help reduce your risk of developing the common diseases seniors face. You can find your local senior center by searching online or asking your doctor or other health care provider.
Take Part in Clinical Trials
Clinical trials are research studies that test new treatments or interventions in people. They are an essential part of developing new medical therapies. Many clinical trials need seniors as participants, so consider participating in one if you’re eligible. This is a great way to potentially receive cutting-edge treatment while also helping contribute to advancements in medical care.
These are only a few things you can do to prevent the common diseases faced by seniors. Remember, it’s never too late to make changes that can improve your health! Ensure that you live healthily by following the tips above.
