During your life, your body is constantly changing. When you’re younger, that’s growth and puberty. As you age, different changes begin to occur within your body. These are a few of the health issues commonly associated with older adults.
Hearing and Vision Loss
As you grow older, your body begins to stop functioning at its top capacity. Specifically, an individual’s eyes and ears begin to stop working quite as well. According to George St Eye Centre, this process progresses faster as individuals age, resulting in degraded vision and hearing. This ailment affects quite a high percentage of older adults in some form or another. This may result in something as minor as the adult needing glasses or hearing aids, or more intense hearing and vision loss. This is a completely normal process as individuals age, but it can be frustrating for you or a loved one to experience. Speak with your doctor if you are worried about vision or hearing loss, and they can direct you toward the best treatment options.
Joint Pain
Another common ailment individuals may experience as they age is joint pain. As you age, your muscles become weaker and ligaments stiffen, which makes it more difficult for your joints to move smoothly. If it continues, this joint pain can become osteoarthritis, which is a more serious illness. According to Med Mart, arthritis can result in stiffness and swelling around the joints. However, there are ways to slow down the process and keep your joints healthy for as long as possible. First, be sure you’re getting a consistent amount of exercise. This movement keeps your joints lubricated and moving smoothly. This movement is also helpful for maintaining a healthy weight, which helps decrease the force on your joints. Lastly, including anti-inflammatory foods can help with any inflammation around your joints.
Memory Loss
Forgetfulness is another common symptom of aging. Just as your body begins to shift and change as you age, so does your mind. Becoming slightly more forgetful, or being unable to retain as much information as you once could is common. However, be sure to watch out for any signs of Alzheimer’s disease. This illness has the same symptoms as regular memory loss but on a much greater level. Alzheimer’s is a more serious disease, which can result in you forgetting basic functions and memories. If you start noticing more intense memory loss, consult your doctor to determine the cause.
Aging brings with it a slew of physical and emotional symptoms. Many of these are common and happen to the majority of adults as they age. However, it’s always important to consult your doctor if you’re worried to make sure these symptoms aren’t from anything more serious.
Check out this article on what to know about taking a new prescription medication!