Old age comes for us all. Some people, however, age more gracefully than others. We’re sure you’d like to be one of them. People often question what’s normal and what’s not as they age, and this can be a great source of anxiety in some cases. We’ll discuss what you can typically expect to experience as you grow older, what’s totally normal and acceptable, and when to see a doctor to check on your health. With modern medicine, it’s possible to live a full life even as you continue to see many decades come and go.
Loss of Muscular Strength
Hormonal changes, lack of activity and a lifelong habit of poor diet can all contribute to the decrease in muscle mass and a corresponding loss of strength. This is especially true for women going through menopause, the cessation of the reproductive cycle that typically occurs when females reach their 40s or 50s. Two major strategies for battling muscle loss are ensuring an adequate intake of protein (nutritionists suggest an optimal dosage of one gram per pound of bodyweight daily) and an exercise routine that includes moderate-intensity weight lifting.
Change in Vision
Corrective lenses are worn by a large percentage of the elderly population. According to Retina Care Consultants, age-related macular degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss for people over 50. It is commonly characterized by reduced sharpness of lines and muted colors. Recent advances in medical technology now offer surgical solutions to age-related vision loss in many cases. Choose the option that’s best for your lifestyle.
Bone Density and Associated Risks
According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, osteoporosis is the term for a loss in the thickness and strength of bones, usually related to age. As people age, the bones become more brittle and more prone to injury. This leaves seniors at risk, especially those who live alone. Falls in showers, from porches and down stairs cause significant injuries to the elderly. Hips are especially vulnerable to breakage as we age, and a hip injury can carry enormous consequences, including the necessity of moving into a retirement community.
Aging can seem ominous. Your body changes in a way it’s never changed before. However, a lot of these processes are completely natural and can be handled with grace and confidence.
You might also be interested in this article: Drinking Water Does More Than Just Keep You Hydrated
