From the beginning of the aging process health promotion and maintenance is influential in determining how a person will live their life to the fullest. The desire to participate in health maintenance and promotion can vary in older adults, but most older adults are interested in maintaining and promoting their health. Many express the need for independence. For caregivers and family members of older adults who see their illness as a sign of growing old it is important to debunk that myth once and for all. Look at their beliefs and health literacy. The need for health screening, immunizations, and information of health concerns, nutrition, exercise, medications, and safety never stops and increases more as we age. Understanding and providing health care information can lead to a healthier holistic well-being.
The Top 3 Health Concerns among Older Adults
1.Heart Disease
Why is heart disease the #1 leading cause of death in older adults? Heart disease is a secondary illness caused by a primary preexisting health concern dealing with the heart. Two of the many common cardiovascular disorders include hypertension and coronary artery disease. Hypertension is a silent killer among the elderly. Knowing your blood pressure plays a significant role in this disorder. Any elevation in the systolic or diastolic pressure are important risk factors. Older adults typically have a higher blood pressure especially the systolic pressure (the top number). 140//90 is consider hypertension. Treatment can decrease the chance of this silent killer. Coronary Artery disease occurs when one or more arteries are blocked. These two preexisting conditions can cause heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure.
2. Cancer
Cancer is the 2nd leading cause of death in older adults. Early detection, treatment and risk factors can help reduce the chance for older adults to get cancer. Quitting smoking, breast exams, and rectal screening can help in the reduction of many cancers. Understanding the signs and symptoms of cancer can significantly lower the chances of a worsening condition. Take for instance unchanging lesions, persistent coughing, lumps on breast, changes in bowel movements, bleeding or unexplained weight loss. These are just a few signs of possible cancer. Educate older adults on the importance of being self aware of these symptoms.
3. Stroke
Stroke is the 3rd leading cause of death in older adults. Strokes can occur in the brain as inadequate blood flow or hemorrhages. Risk factors are many including hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, family history, and prior incidences. Strokes can lead to dependence upon care givers and family members. It can be a debilitating condition to endure as an older adult. Know the warning signs and provide comfort and recovery for older adults who have already suffered from a stroke.
Although there is plenty of other health concerns with the older adult these top 3 have been very predominant in America for many years. Why not catch these pathological conditions head on by maintaining health screenings, understanding the signs and symptoms, and practicing good health habits. Older adults can live a more optimal life but we must help to reduce these 3 leading health problems among older adults with proper health preventions.
At Senior Lifestyle Concierge we express the need for health promotion and maintenance. We want our clients to live a happier, healthier, and independent life! If you have any questions on how we can help assistant you with anything from daily living to finding the right health care facilities for you let us know. We are here to help we want you to have optimal living right now!
Check out our services: http://www.seniorlifestyleconcierge.com/services/
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