Thanks to modern medicine, we can expect to live much longer than ever before. Many people are living into their 90s while only 100 years ago, life expectancy was only 50 years old.
That being said, there are many common health problems in the elderly population. According to research, once someone reaches the age of 65, their risk of developing Alzheimer’s or vascular dementia doubles every 5 years.
Many healthy choices can slow down the chances of developing one of the many elderly health issues, however, some of the conditions are inevitable.
So the question is, what are the common health problems in elderly people? If you are at risk, what can you do about it?
Thankfully, we created this article to answer those questions. Keep on reading to learn more about the common health problems in the elderly population.
1. Alzheimer’s Diseases
Once someone reaches the age of 85 years old, their chances of developing Alzheimer’s disease reaches nearly one-third of that age’s population.
Scientists know that genetics plays a major role in discovering if you will develop Alzheimer’s Disease or not. Many other studies have also discovered that health and lifestyle can affect your chances as well.
Dementia is the overall term for diseases and overall cognitive decline, which includes memory loss, confusion, problem-solving, and inability to perform daily activities. Nonetheless, it is essential to know how to deal with dementia in a parent if you suspect one of your parents is showing symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease.
2. Arthritis
Arthritis is the most common condition that affects people age 65 and older, with osteoarthritis being the most common type. Arthritis is characterized by painful, swelling joints and a deterioration of the cushions and cartilage in the joints breaks down.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the body attacks its joints, causing extreme pain, bone malformation, and discomfort.
3. Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis happens when the body stops producing enough bone mass, which leads to a deterioration in the bones, or weakened and brittle bones.
This disease can get so bad that a bone could break from something as little as a sneeze. Osteoporosis mostly affects people over 50 years of age, and especially women because of the change in hormone production during menopause.
4. Depression
Depression is a common condition that happens with the elderly population. As we age, our lives change dramatically around us. Our friends and family members pass away, and life as we know it can take many turns.
This unpredictability leads to a higher chance of developing clinical depression in older adults. Especially for those who are living in residential home care settings.
Learn More About Common Health Problems in Elderly People
There are many common health problems in elderly people, and the best thing you can do for your elderly parent is to be there for them. As their health declines, the most important thing they need is to feel safe and that their family is there for them.
If you found this article helpful, check out more like this under the health and family section of our blog.
Senior Outlook Today is your go-to source for information, inspiration, and connection as you navigate the later years of life. Our team of experts and writers is dedicated to providing relevant and engaging content for seniors, covering topics such as health and wellness, finances, technology and travel.
