Common Health Conditions for Seniors

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Older adults face many unique health issues as they maneuver their twilight years. While most of these challenges are normal and expected, there are things that can be done to ensure the seniors’ struggles are minimized. Below are five common old-age conditions to brace for, and some of the measures you can take to ensure your loved one’s life isn’t overly affected.

1. Cerebral Palsy

Often associated with kids, cerebral palsy (CP) is a disease found in older adults too. Most seniors with cerebral palsy are those that had the condition since their infancy. Common CP symptoms in older adults include increased pain, muscle rigidity, walking difficulties, swallowing difficulties, dental health issues, and frequent falls. Medications and other therapy plans are used to manage the symptoms, but it is good to have a doctor examine your loved one before a treatment plan is recommended.

2. Parkinson’s disease

Parkinson’s disease is typified by a breakdown of dopamine-producing neurons. It gradually affects movement, with severe cases making it extremely difficult for victims to live without some assistance. It is thus advisable to get your loved one to a responsible assisted living facility such as Long House, so they can receive the care they need and deserve on a 24-hour basis.

3. Heart disease

Heart disease can affect anyone, but it is most prevalent among the older population. Coronary artery disease, a type of heart disease, has been shown to be behind around half of all deaths linked to cardiovascular disease. The main reason for this is that as you grow old, your body experiences a rise in blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and more, all of which are risk factors for heart disease. While it is impossible to completely curb heart disease, there are things you can do to minimize the risk of a coronary event. These include eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight.

4. Rheumatoid arthritis

Age-induced rheumatoid arthritis (RA) sets in between ages 60 and 65. Typically, RA that sets in late progresses much faster than early-onset arthritis. Its symptoms – joint degeneration, shoulder degeneration, pain, anemia, fever, and weight loss – are also more severe than those of its early-onset cousin.

Pain management and joint damage prevention measures for RA victims include medication, physical therapy, balance exercises, and aquatic therapy.

5. Dysphagia

You would be forgiven for thinking dysphagia isn’t a sufferable condition, given it only causes mere swallowing difficulties. There are many stages of the disease, and chronic dysphagia can come as a serious medical concern. Watch for warning signs such as painful swallowing, hoarse voice, abrupt weight loss, coughing or gagging when swallowing, food regurgitation, and frequent heartburn.

A primary care physician can help perform a diagnosis and create a personalized treatment plan for your loved one.

Conclusion

These are some of the conditions you should watch out for if you have been entrusted with the care of your aging loved one. Seek the advice of a healthcare provider before taking any action. If need be, check your loved one into a care home for more professional care.

This is a guest blog entry.