Seniors are prone to a number of health problems. Fortunately, it is easy to treat most health conditions if they are detected early. There are several health conditions that seniors have to keep an eye on.
Obesity
Obesity is a common problem in the elderly, and it is getting worse. Lack of meaningful exercise and poor diet choices tend to be the highest contributors to weight gain. Your metabolism naturally slows down as you get older, so it is likely that you can’t eat the same way you did when you were younger.
Obesity is a concern because it increases the risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease both of which can have you taking a long list of medications. It can also shorten your life and reduce your quality of living in many ways.
If you are struggling with your weight, then you will need to consult with your doctor. Your doctor can develop a diet and exercise plan for you.
Poor Oral Care
Dry mouth is an increasingly common health condition that many seniors live with. This condition occurs when the mouth is unable to produce a sufficient amount of saliva. Several medications can increase the risk of dry mouth, and as many seniors are on medications for any number of reasons, the chances of it are growing. Dry mouth can not only cause discomfort and frustration, but it also can increase the risk of tooth decay.
Gum disease is another problem that is common in the elderly. If it not diagnosed and treated, then it can lead to tooth loss. Although missing teeth doesn’t sound like much of a concern, it can lead to some more serious problems down the line, and so dental repair operations may be necessary for improved quality of life. Missing teeth have to be replaced because they can cause serious problems later down the road. Gum disease also contributes to many other health problems. This includes heart disease, diabetes, and pneumonia.
The natural aging process puts you at risk for developing dental health problems. However, there are still some things that you can do to protect your oral health. Regular dental visits ensure good oral health. And although it can seem easy or worthwhile to skip them, the benefits far outweigh the short-term desires of avoiding them. You will also need to floss and brush regularly.
Depression
Many seniors are ashamed to admit that they suffer from depression. However, this is a problem that is common in older people. Many factors can come together to explain why seniors may be more prone to depression. Many of them have lost their spouses and friends. They are less physically active compared to when they were younger, and sedentary lifestyles can make people more susceptible to depression. Many people in their elder years also admit to having strong feelings of isolation and loneliness, which at times can be unbearable.
The good news is that there are a variety of ways that depression can be treated. If you or someone you know seem like they might experience depression, then there is hope. Meditation, exercise, eating right, and getting enough sleep can greatly affect a person. You may want to see a doctor and speak with them about your experiences and feelings. They might prescribe an antidepressant, but they will almost certainly accompany a prescription with lifestyle advice such as keeping a daily medication log. They may also advise you to go to counseling to help discuss and overcome some of those feelings.
The aging process puts a strain on the body. Poor oral health, obesity, and depression are just a few of the many health problems that you can develop as you get older. Fortunately, you can protect your health by getting these problems treated.
