Aging seems scary because of the endless challenges it brings. Problems that come with old age include wrinkles, memory loss, grey age, and wondering where to live. It poses unique health issues that need resources to manage, especially; when you opt for long term elderly care. However, sometimes having money is not enough to get rid of the problems caused by aging. Experts state that by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, exercise regularly, and avoid stress, you can live long. However, there is no guarantee that these practices will shield you from health issues associated with aging.
Common Health Issues Facing the Elderly
Arthritis
A large number of older adults have arthritis. It is the breakdown of tissues in the joints, which causes pain and restricts movement. Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis among the elderly. Our bones become worn as we age. It is a natural aging process that cannot be reserved. Symptoms of arthritis include inflamed joints, stiff and tender joints, and restricted movement. There is no cure for arthritis, but one can use painkillers to manage pain. People who suffer from this condition face a greater risk of falling because of weak joints.
Hypertension
This refers to elevated blood pressure. Many people suffer from hypertension without knowing it. This is because there are no noticeable symptoms until it reaches a critical point. When the blood pressure is too high, one experiences severe headaches, irregular heartbeat, and chest pain. Hypertension can cause heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, and heart disease. Older adults can control hypertension by maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, and avoid smoking.
Alzheimer’s disease
Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia, which is a collective term for memory loss and other mental abilities. Symptoms of Alzheimer’s usually develop slowly and worsen over time, becoming severe enough to interfere with daily living activities.
Diabetes
A significant number of the U.S. population aged 65 and above have diabetes. Its effect on the working-age adults defines the burden of diabetes; however, diabetes in the elderly increases their risk for chronic and acute cardiovascular and microvascular problems. The disease is manageable if recognized early. Lifestyle changes and senior resources help elderly seniors live long and productive lives.
Pneumonia
Pneumonia is a lung infection that kills more than 50, 000 Americans every year, with the majority of the cases being people that are 65 years and above. Symptoms of pneumonia in older adults include fever and chills, confusion, fatigue and weakness, chest or rib pain, lower than usual body temperature and a cough with is usually productive. Pneumonia in older people can be treated at home; however, the ones living in senior care homes get treatment from hospitals, where they might need oxygen therapy to aid them in breathing.
Poverty Caused by Major Health Condition
Poverty among seniors is getting harder to ignore. Additionally, poverty in elderly people can also be caused by financial scams, debt, loaning money, loss of a spouse, and major health conditions. Seniors should focus on living a healthy lifestyle and prevent long-term problems like diabetes. Be aware of theses causes of poverty and implement measures that can keep your loved one safe.
Guarantee the Safety of Your Loved One
When in nursing homes, look out for a change in personality, mood, or eating habits in your loved one. Since many nursing homes understaffed with the remaining staff members overworking themselves, medication errors are bound to happen. Additionally, if you suspect that there is a medication problem in the nursing home, for instance, your loved one was given expired medications or has been given an overdose, it is advisable to bring the case to the attention of a nursing home abuse lawyer.