Many illnesses come on suddenly. Your genetic makeup or family history may be their root; none of these factors is within your control.
However, a surprisingly large number of health issues can be averted with the appropriate planning and lifestyle modifications.
Continue reading to learn how to avoid everything from acid reflux to some types of cancer.
Mental Health
Aging does not cause dementia. Disease, drug responses, infections, issues with vision and hearing, and malnourishment can all lead to dementia. Dementia comes in numerous forms, some of which are transient, such as Alzheimer’s disease.
Accurate diagnosis leads to assistance and management. Depression is the most prevalent mental health illness in later life. Senior depression has the potential to result in suicide if left untreated.
Unexpectedly, white males over the age of fifty have a greater suicide rate than any other age group, including teenagers.
Injury and Violence
Falls are the primary cause of injuries, hospital admissions for trauma, and deaths among seniors. Strategies to reduce injury include exercises to improve balance and strength, such as orthopedic physical therapy and medication review. Making changes to your home can lessen injuries.
Home security is essential to stop intruders. Home fire safety equipment should be accessible and user-friendly. The risk of dying in a home fire is twice as high for those 65 years of age and above as for the general public.
Overweight and Obesity
Obesity increases the risk of various health issues, including hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, gallbladder disease, osteoarthritis, dyslipidemia, and endometrial, breast, prostate, and colon cancers.
The National Institutes of Health’s National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute offers comprehensive guidance and helpful recommendations regarding obesity.
Cancers
Cancers can be preventable, such as skin, lung, esophageal, and larynx cancers and head and neck cancers. Excessive alcohol use can also increase the risk of cancer. Alcohol is believed to cause cell changes and facilitate the entry of toxic substances from smoking.
To prevent these cancers, quit smoking or limit alcohol intake to one drink per day. Treatment for alcohol use disorder can help reduce cancer risk.
Type 2 diabetes
Diabetes affects an estimated 3.1 million US women, who may not realize they have the disease due to high obesity rates. The obesity epidemic is driven by lifestyle factors like excessive calorie consumption, fast food, and sitting.
Women from Hispanic, African-American, and Native American backgrounds are four times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes. Also, gestational diabetes during pregnancy increases the risk of developing the disease.
Immunization
Pneumonia and influenza are among the top 10 causes of death for older individuals. The emphasis on senior influenza immunization has been beneficial. Pneumonia continues to be one of the deadliest illnesses, particularly in elderly and female patients.
Additionally, you should consider taking cpr training classes to learn life-saving skills, particularly in conditions where fast intervention is necessary.
How can you reduce your risk?
Managing a busy life can be challenging, but it’s essential to prioritize self-care for future health. Reaching middle age with low cholesterol, ideal blood pressure, an optimal weight, no smoking, and no diabetes can reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
The American Heart Association recommends maintaining blood pressure, controlling cholesterol, and reducing blood sugar.
