Here are the seven most common health problems our elderly population has to face: Credits: Adoble StockCredits: Adobe Stock

1. Obesity

You know you are obese if you met all the following criteria: Triglyceride or cholesterol level of 150mg/dL or higher. When cholesterol level is increased, there is a high risk of atherosclerosis that can cause heart attacks and strokes. A waistline of more than 40 inches in men and 35 inches in women. Abnormal blood pressure results, usually higher than normal. And, last but not least, high blood glucose count.

2. Arthritis

This health condition is substantially affecting the elderly population and is now the leading cause of disability. Old injuries, long-standing positions, wearing high-heeled shoes, are just some of the things that irritate this condition. However, this doesn’t mean we can’t do anything about it. Talk to your doctor about medication and lifestyle changes that best suit you.

3. Osteoporosis

Loss of bone mass or osteoporosis is very common among women especially from ages 50 years old and above. Osteoporosis is a condition where the bones lose mass because of the absence of calcium. Why women? Women have the highest risk of developing osteoporosis because of our ability to give birth. Babies need calcium to grow. If a woman lacks calcium during her pregnancy, the body will get the calcium from her bones.

4. Cancer

Though not part of aging, the risk of developing any cancer increases with age. With this knowledge, it’s important for women and men to undergo annual exams to spot any unusual growth or development of any cancer.

Men should also be doing their part in undergoing a physical examination to prevent prostate cancer. This is one of the most common health problems for men who are more than 50 years old.

5. Cardiovascular Diseases or CVD

CVD which are diseases of the heart and arteries increases with age. It is now also the leading cause of death in the US. The best way to reduce the chances of heart diseases, such as atherosclerosis, arrhythmia, stroke and heart failure among others, is to start and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

6. Eyes and Ears (Vision and Hearing Loss)

These are conditions that are related to aging. Due to macular degeneration, diabetes and cataracts, vision is impaired. To prevent this from happening, regular eye exams and supplemental diet can help tremendously in decreasing the risk of vision loss.

Hearing loss is common in old age and is made worse if you are exposed to loud sounds like working in a factory without proper ear protection among other things. Impaired hearing can cause social isolation that would lead to depression. But don’t worry there is a cure for hearing loss. With the help of a hearing aid, you can start to enjoy normal activities again.

7. Teeth Loss

Though not very high on the list, people are still losing their teeth due to unhealthy practices. However, it’s not so much of an issue now since you have the option to keep your teeth, have implants or bleaching where you can make your teeth look years younger.

There are things you can’t stop, like aging. It’s part of nature. However, it doesn’t mean you have to let yourself accept everything without a fight. All the common health problems listed above can be prevented with proper diet and regular physical activity.

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