Common causes of death in the over-65 range

Around the age of 35 to 40, doctors begin to take slightly greater interest in our bodies. This is because we have entered a risk category previously unknown to us in our youth. We’re not talking about the onset of advanced seizures and our various organs exploding without any warning whilst standing in the queue at the post office. No. Think more along the lines of cholesterol, diabetes, and depending on our lifestyle, early stages of cancer (cancer comes in different stages, see stage 4a lung cancer for example). Let’s look at some of the leading causes of death in the over 65 age range.  

Heart disease

Heart disease is an umbrella term that covers a host of issues relating to the thing that goes thump in your chest. If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, weight issues, drinking problems, and if you smoke and don’t eat a particularly healthy balanced diet, you could be at high risk of heart disease above the age of 65. The conditions covered by the terminology include heart arrhythmia, heart attacks, and heart failure.

Pneumonia

People who suffer from cardiovascular and respiratory diseases (some of which are mentioned above) are at increased risk of suffering the onset of symptoms of pneumonia. In simple terms, pneumonia is a type of chest infection that results in a swelling of the lung tissue. Viruses and other conditions known to cause pneumonia are more prevalent in the colder winter months, meaning that those at risk should seek to avoid the disease by seeking vaccinations, by stopping smoking, and by practicing good personal hygiene (i.e. washing hands).

Accidents in the home

Believe it or not, falls represent more than 50% of accidental recorded deaths in the over 65 bracket. As we age, our ability to renew our cells becomes less than perfect. This means that, over time, our bodies and our senses in general begin to deteriorate. For example, you could experience a combination of certain disorders relating to balance, eye sight, and your reflexes, which together contribute to a higher risk of falls in the home. Fractures that result in immobility can mean that you are unable to seek help, and could mean an untimely demise as a result of a simple trip. Exercises are available to assist with strength and balance. Try to wear flat soled shoes for extra balance and grip.

This is a guest blog entry.