Aside from leading a healthy lifestyle, seniors should also see their doctors once a year for checkups to ensure that they are in good health and to catch any potential health concerns early on. During these checkups, doctors will perform various tests and screenings to ensure everything is functioning properly. Seniors should also be sure to keep up with their routine screenings, such as mammograms and colonoscopies, as their doctor recommends.
By taking these steps, seniors can help ensure that they stay healthy and avoid many health concerns with aging. If you have any concerns about your health, be sure to talk to your doctor. Likewise, here are some specific health concerns that seniors should watch out for:
Dementia
Dementia is a condition that affects a person’s ability to think, make decisions, or remember things. It can interfere with a person’s ability to perform everyday activities. A few examples of these instances include forgetting how to make a cup of coffee, not being able to remember where you put your keys, or having trouble following a conversation. With this, the approach used to treat dementia depends on the condition’s underlying cause. In some cases, medications can help to protect the brain or manage symptoms. However, suppose you suspect someone you know is showing signs of dementia. In that case, it is vital to see a doctor as soon as possible for an accurate diagnosis and to discuss treatment options.
Cataracts
Cataracts are a common eye problem that can occur in seniors. The lens of the eye becomes cloudy, and vision is blurred. This is caused by changes in the lens’s proteins as people age. For example, if you were to have cataracts, you would find it difficult to see at night and to read or do other activities that require clear vision. It also becomes harder to see colors, and everything may seem to have a yellow tinge. That said, you would need professional cataract surgery that can help improve your vision. This procedure is relatively straightforward, but you would still have to follow your doctor’s post-operative instructions carefully to avoid any complications.
Hearing Problems
Hearing loss is a common problem among seniors. As people age, the tissues in their ears can become stiffer and less elastic, leading to hearing loss. The loss of hearing can make it difficult to follow conversations, enjoy music, or watch television. With this, hearing loss has three types:
- Sensorineural hearing loss stems from inner ear damage often caused by over-exposure to loud sounds.
- Conductive hearing loss involves a blockage that prevents sounds from reaching the inner ear, which can be due to earwax buildup.
- Mixed-hearing loss exhibits both symptoms of the previous two.
There are a few different treatment options available for hearing loss. The most common include a hearing aid, speech-to-text assistive devices, or preventing excess wax in the ear, which can build up and cause hearing loss. If you think you may be experiencing hearing loss, it is essential to see an ENT specialist for a comprehensive hearing test.
Heart disease
Heart disease occurs when the heart muscle becomes weakened and cannot pump blood effectively. This can lead to a number of health problems, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and heart attacks. There are a few different types of heart disease, but the most common is coronary artery disease. These are commonly treated by lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and getting regular exercise. In some cases, medications may also be necessary to manage symptoms or prevent disease progression.
Diabetes
If you have diabetes, your blood sugar (glucose) levels become too high. This can lead to many health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and blindness. Diabetes is a common problem among seniors. There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes is usually diagnosed in childhood, while type 2 diabetes is more common in adults. Both types of diabetes can be managed with lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, regular exercise, and medication. In some cases, insulin injections may also be necessary to control blood sugar levels.
As you age, health concerns become more important to watch out for. While some issues may seem minor, they can quickly add up and cause severe problems down the road if left untreated. That’s why taking care of your health now is important before any major problems develop. If you have any concerns about your health or a loved one, talk to a doctor immediately.
