Thanks to advances in medicine, Americans are living longer than ever before. The downside, however, is that older adults are at a higher risk for chronic health problems.
This is why it is important that adults in their 70s – and 80s and beyond –be aware of the major health concerns they may face and the treatment options that are available to them.
Let’s talk about the top 10 health facts and where you can go for excellent senior healthcare in Tampa, Florida.
10 Important Health Facts for Seniors
- Arthritis is the number one condition among seniors, affecting an estimated 49.7 percent of adults over 65, according to the CDC. It can lead to chronic pain and discourage you from being active, a key to maintaining senior health. If you are being treated for arthritic symptoms, work with your doctor to develop a personal activity plan.
- Heart disease is the leading cause of death in seniors. According to the Federal Interagency Forum on Aging-Related Statistics, it affects 37 percent of men and 26 percent of women 65 and older. Certain risk factors, such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol, increase your chances of stroke or developing heart disease. To reduce your risk, maintain a healthy weight with a well-balanced diet, exercise, and get plenty of rest.
- Cancer ranks second among the causes of death in people over the age of 65. Fortunately, many types of cancer are treatable if caught early through screenings, such as mammograms, colonoscopies, and skin examinations.
- Chronic lower respiratory diseases, such as COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema – are the third most common cause of death among seniors. These conditions make you more vulnerable to pneumonia and other infections. However, getting lung function tests, taking appropriate medication, and using oxygen as instructed, can help preserve your health and quality of life.
- Alzheimer’s disease, which affects one in nine adults age 65 and older, can significantly impact senior health in terms of cognitive impairment, safety issues, and self-care. The earlier it is diagnosed the better chance of benefitting from access to treatment options that include certain medications and clinical trials.
- Osteoporosis (low bone mass) is common among seniors, especially women. It can contribute to becoming less mobile and more prone to falls and fractures. Treatment for osteoporosis includes medications, a healthy diet, and weight-bearing exercise to help prevent bone loss and strengthen already weakened bones.
- Diabetes is a significant health risk for seniors, affecting 25 percent of those age 65 and older. Luckily, it can be identified and treated with simple blood tests for blood sugar levels.
- Flu and pneumonia are not chronic conditions, but seniors are more vulnerable to these serious infections and less able to ward them off. Thisis why annual flu shots and the pneumonia vaccine are highly recommended if you are 65 or older.
- Shingles are a major concern for those who had chicken pox when they were young. It causes severe pain and tingling, which then develops into an itchy rash and blisters on one side of the body. An estimated one in three people over 60 will get shingles, and 50 percent of all Americans will experience it by age 80, according to the National Institutes of Health – unless they receive the shingles vaccine.
- Depression affects up to 20 percent of Americans over the age of 65, according to the American Psychological Association. It represents a threat to senior health because it can lower immunity and compromise your ability to fight infections. Thankfully, depression can be treated with medication, therapy, and increased physical activity.
Medical Center in Tampa, Florida
At Palm Medical Centers, we focus on senior healthcare. Our board-certified primary care physicians are highly trained and experienced professionals who value their relationships with their patients, which can significantly impact you and your whole family’s health and well-being.
Utilizing the latest advances in medical techniques and technology, we diagnose, treat, and support our patients and provide personalized, comprehensive healthcare – emphasizing preventive care – to help ensure you live your best quality of life.
To learn more about our primary care services for seniors or become a Palm Medical Centers patient, call us today at (833) 500-PALM (7256). You can also schedule a tour of your preferred site by filling in our online appointment request form.
