Physical Activity and Nutrition
Research suggests that being physically active can prevent or delay the development of certain diseases such as cancer as well as heart disease and diabetes. It can also help alleviate depression and boost mood. It is common for inactivity to accompany getting older but it doesn’t need to. Find your local churches or synagogues centers and malls for fitness or walking programmer. As with exercise, diet is usually not optimal if you live and consume food on your own. It’s essential to consume foods high in nutrients. Also, beware of empty calories from sweets and candy.
Overweight and Obesity
Obesity or overweight can increase the risk of suffering from hypertension Type 2 diabetes, stroke, coronary heart disease as well as gallbladder diseases osteoarthritis and respiratory issues, sleep apnea as well as prostate, breast as well as colon cancer. Practical and in-depth information on obesity are available through the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute of the National Institutes of Health.
Tobacco
Tobacco is by far the biggest risk factor for illnesses and premature deaths within the U.S. Smoking cigarettes is now referred to as “Tobacco dependence disease.” It is the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that those who smoke and try to stop smoking are more likely to succeed when they are supported by the advice of their doctor.
Substance Abuse
Substance abuse is usually a result of alcohol and drugs. These are two fields that do not often think of as senior citizens, however, seniors, just like younger people, can self-medicate with both illegal and legal drugs and alcohol, which could lead to serious health problems. Additionally, seniors could inadvertently or accidentally mix medicines and alcohol. Because of the stereotypes we have about seniors, a lot of medical professionals do not ask seniors about the possibility of using drugs.
HIV/AIDS
Between 11 to 15 between 11 and 15 % Of U.S. AIDS cases occur among seniors over 50. Between the years 1991-96 AIDS among people over 50 increased nearly twice more quickly than younger adults. Seniors are less likely to take condoms, and suffer from immune system weaknesses that are natural as we age as well.
HIV symptoms (fatigue weight loss, fatigue, skin rashes swelling lymph nodes) are akin to the symptoms which can be associated with the aging process. Also, the stereotypes of ageing in relation to sexual activity and use of drugs remain largely unaware of this issue. This is the reason why seniors aren’t very well represented in studies, clinical trials of drugs as well as prevention programs, and attempts to intervene.
Related: The Common skin conditions and diseases
Mental Health
The cause of dementia is not the aging process. It can be caused by illness reaction to medication, vision and hearing problems, infections deficiencies in nutrition, diabetes and kidney failure. There are many types of the disease (including Alzheimer’s Disease) and some are only temporary. If you are able to identify the cause, you will be able to manage and assistance. The most frequently diagnosed mental health issue is depression. If it is not treated depressive illness among the elderly may cause suicide. It’s an interesting fact: The risk of suicide is higher among older whites than for anyone else, not including teenagers.
Injury and Violence
For seniors that fall is the most common reason for injuries, hospitalizations for trauma as well as deaths from injuries. One-third of seniors (age 65 and over) will fall at least once a year. Strategies to avoid injuries include exercises that improve strength and balance, as well as the review of medications. Modifications to your home can reduce injuries. Security at home is essential to stop intruders. Fire prevention devices for homes are required and user-friendly. Aged 65 and over will be twice as likely be killed in a fire at home than people in general.
Environmental Quality
Although pollution is a problem for everyone research by the government has shown that people with lower incomes, race and people of ethnic minority are more likely reside in areas that are at risk from environmental hazards. In comparison against the rest of us, larger percentage of the elderly live in areas that are just above the poverty line.
Immunization
The two diseases are among the most fatal causes of death in older adults. A focus on Influenza vaccinations for seniors has been beneficial. Pneumonia is still an extremely dangerous diseases, particularly among women and those who are very old.
Access to Health Care
Seniors often don’t take their health as closely as they ought to. A shortage of geriatricians is reported across the country, URMC has one of the largest concentrations of geriatricians as well as geriatric specialists of any medical institution across the country. Access to healthcare is just a few minutes away from URMC providing a range of services in a variety of hospitals such as in the VA Hospital in Canandaigua, in senior housing, and within your neighborhood.
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