A Closer Look at the 8 Top Health Concerns for Seniors

Getting older doesn’t necessarily mean facing new health issues. However, many health conditions do become more common with age. For seniors who are living independently at home, it can become more difficult to manage these health risks and adjust to new symptoms, medications, and treatments. Below, we’ll take a look at the top eight health concerns for seniors and the ways that hiring an in-home care provider can reduce or even help reverse these conditions. 

1. Heart Disease

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, and it becomes a much bigger risk with age. Conditions like hypertension (high blood pressure) and high cholesterol can lead to heart disease, and these issues are seen in more than 50% of older adults in the U.S. Additionally, changes in the heart and blood vessels are likely with age. Maintaining an active lifestyle, eating a balanced diet, and reducing daily stress can all reduce the risk of heart disease, making a major cardiac event like a heart attack less likely. 

2. Obesity

Obesity has become an epidemic in the U.S. and globally. About 42% of older adults in the U.S. are obese, which makes them much more likely to face related health issues like diabetes, heart disease, chronic kidney disease, and arthritis. Mobility can also become an issue in obese seniors. As the body ages, muscles become weaker, bones become more brittle, and joints become inflamed. As a result, it may be more difficult for seniors struggling with obesity to maintain a daily routine, completing tasks like bathing, cleaning the house, and going for daily walks. 

3. Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a common bone disease in which the bones lose density, making them more susceptible to fractures and other injuries. Osteoporosis is more common in women than in men, and it is often diagnosed after menopause. While bone density cannot be restored, the progression of osteoporosis can be slowed with muscle-strengthening exercises like weightlifting, a mineral-rich diet, and a low-impact fitness routine to promote strength and flexibility. 

4. Arthritis 

There are many different types of arthritis, but the most common in seniors is osteoarthritis, which occurs as the cartilage that cushions the joints breaks down over time. The result is pain, inflammation, and reduced range of motion in the joints that can significantly limit mobility and reduce overall quality of life. Seniors struggling with arthritis may benefit from assistance with daily chores, personal care, and nursing care to help them minimize pain and discomfort while maintaining their overall health and wellness. 

5. Falls

Falls are the leading cause of injuries and ER visits in people over 65. They become more common among seniors due to a wide range of factors, including vision impairment, medications that can cause drowsiness, environmental hazards, and cognitive impairment. Having a helping hand around the house with a qualified caregiver who can assist with cleaning, personal care, and medication management can reduce the risk of falls in the home and ensure that if a fall does occur, it is quickly addressed with appropriate medical care.  

6. Dementia

A common misconception about aging is that dementia is inevitable. While some forgetfulness is likely with age, significant memory loss and cognitive changes are not normal and should be assessed by a physician as soon as these symptoms arise. Early diagnosis can help slow the progression of dementia. There are many causes and risk factors for dementia, including loneliness and social isolation, medical conditions like heart disease and diabetes, and a sedentary lifestyle. 

7. Depression

While depression is common in older adults, it should not be considered a normal part of the aging process. Depression can cause feelings of hopelessness, sadness, and pessimism, as well as fatigue, changes in appetite, loss of interest in daily activities, and frequent mood swings. Depression is treatable through a variety of medical treatments and lifestyle changes, including seeking more frequent social activity and companionship. 

8. Flu, Pneumonia, and Shingles 

During cold and flu season, seniors are at a much higher risk than the general population because they tend to have weakened immune systems and are more likely to face complications like pneumonia. Seniors should seek annual flu and COVID vaccines as well as the shingles vaccine. 

If you or an elderly loved one is living at home and needs assistance with medication management, nursing services, personal care, and housekeeping, New Outlook Home Care is here to help. With professional caregivers serving southern and central Oregon in Medford and Redmond, we provide compassionate, comprehensive in-home care to promote the health, wellness, and safety of seniors who prefer to remain in the comfort of home through their golden years. Contact us today to learn more about our services and schedule a consultation with our caregiving team.