The National Council on Aging stated that about 92% of seniors have some type of chronic disease, while 77% have at least two. With this, we can clearly tell that as people age, they get more susceptible to all sorts of health conditions.

Aging comes with physical and mental decline, which is only natural. As you get old, you will soon face some health challenges. But this does not mean that you should let yourself go. The best thing that you can do is to stay as healthy as possible. Eat right. Exercise more often. Go for a regular checkup. You also need to familiarize yourself with the most common health concerns that seniors may encounter so that you know exactly what to avoid. Here they are:

Alzheimer’s Disease

Did you know that Alzheimer’s disease is the sixth leading cause of death? In 2017, more than 100,000 seniors have died because of this health problem.

While memory loss is common as people get older, the development of Alzheimer’s disease is something that you can actually avoid or at least delay. How? First, you need to know the warning signs like disruptive memory loss, getting confused with time and place, struggling to complete even the simplest tasks, communication issues, poor judgment, social withdrawal, frequently misplacing objects, as well as changes in mood and personality.

With early intervention and treatment, you can certainly slow down the progression of the disease.

Arthritis

In the United States, about 54 million adults are suffering from arthritis, and a majority of those are seniors. This health condition can result in chronic pain and can even lead to sleep problems and depression. If you are battling arthritis, you need to have an appropriate therapy regimen. You may also be given pain and anti-inflammatory medicines.

Diabetes

More than 25% of seniors over the age of 65 have diabetes. This right here is a serious health problem because it can result in other complications. With that said, it is important that you monitor your blood sugar levels.

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of this disease in older adults, and it can be treated when detected early enough. The symptoms may include losing weight without trying, frequent urination, increased hunger or thirst, blurred vision, and feeling tired. You may also notice that your cuts and bruises heal slowly.

Obesity

According to statistics, more than 8 million adults over the age of 65 are obese. As an individual gets older, muscle mass tends to deteriorate and it gets replaced by fat instead. More so when one lives a sedentary lifestyle. This can then lead to obesity, which comes with a plethora of health complications like heart disease, hypertension, and many more.

For this reason, seniors are encouraged to stay physically active as much as they can. You also need to watch what you eat.

Hearing Loss

Loss of hearing is a common problem for older adults. The truth is even a mild hearing loss may increase the risk of dementia. Left untreated, this health concern may cause depression, anxiety, fatigue as well as social isolation.

To avoid age-related hearing loss, also known as presbycusis, you can wear earplugs or special fluid-filled ear muffs. You should also stay away from loud noises.

Heart Disease

Heart disease is considered the leading killer of adults over the age of 65. As you age, your heart and its blood vessels change. And over time, the heart muscle weakens, which could then result in heart failure or heart attacks. Other problems that may arise include hypertension, stroke, and diabetes.

To prevent heart disease, try to be more physically active. If you are a smoker, you need to quit. It is also important that you monitor your weight, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels.

Falls

Millions of people, 65 and older, fall each year. Some of which have resulted in minor injuries. But falls can also cause more serious damages. An elderly may have a bone fracture and other issues.

But the good thing is, falls can be prevented. Stay active so you can maintain your balance and posture. You must also have your eyes and hearing tested. And when you are feeling weak, you have to stand slowly. You can always ask for assistance from your family members if needed.

Respiratory Illnesses

Respiratory illnesses are not only common in younger individuals but also in the older population. Seniors may suffer from tuberculosis, respiratory tract infections, bronchial asthma, or chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases. All of which may result in more serious complications that may even lead to death.

Now, to avoid the development of respiratory illnesses, you should take good care of your lungs. Don’t smoke and you should avoid exposure to pollutants. And most of all, never skip your checkups.

Aging comes with a lot of health concerns, especially for seniors. But with the help of health professionals and you doing your part, you can still enjoy life after retirement without worrying about health issues.