Aging: Common Medical Needs

There are several theories on why we age from pre-determined hereditary genes to the lifestyle. Regardless, of which way the findings conclude the aging process causes the body to slowly malfunction and breakdown. There are many visible signs like your thinning graying hair, wrinkled, crepe-paper skin and lack of muscle. Just as you have these signs there are many more going on inside the body, concealed until they cause a problem. A large percentage of the aging population live with some type of medical condition.

Osteoporosis

Bone loss is very common in elderly people. The reason is that bones become fragile due to the fact that they don’t receive an ample supply of calcium to sustain the strength. Unfortunately, this creates a terrible situation just waiting to happen. Because the bones are fragile, to begin with, any fall minor or severe, can cause a fracture or even a break. The best way to keep things under control and prevent a serious injury from occurring is to take calcium supplements, make regular doctor visits and use equipment to assist in getting around. 

Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes in seniors is on the rise. There are multiple reasons. First, there’s a larger population of elderly people surviving. Second, a larger portion of the aging population is overweight. With the breakdown of the body through the natural aging process and added unhealthy weight, many seniors will develop type 2 diabetes. The good news is that this is something you can control. Regular doctors and ophthalmologist visits, medications and possibly daily insulin shots can help you maintain a healthy lifestyle. Monitoring your blood sugar levels keeping the body free from abrasions is also critical to your well-being.

Weight Gain

As you grow older your metabolism slows down while at the same time your muscle mass decreases and becomes replaced with fat. So basically, you get hit blind-sided with a double whammy. If you continue to eat the same amount of calories and avoid exercise, you can pack on some serious pounds in short order. Weight gain at any age is troublesome. However, for a senior with medical conditions already present or in the last stages of development, the added weight can cause serious injuries to the body. It can bring on type 2 diabetes, cause cardiovascular problems such as a heart attack or a stroke, or put you at a greater risk for broken bones as a result of a fall. The good news is that if you keep track of your weight and notice the scale on the rise you can take the necessary steps to prevent it from happening. Start by eating lighter, healthier meals, reducing your bread consumption and avoiding processed foods. Adding any form of exercise at least two times weekly for 40-50 minutes will also help to keep your body fit and strong.

The natural aging process brings with it an element of the unknown. Commonly, you may lose part of your vision or hearing. You may have bone loss and actually, lose an inch or two from your height or you may have trouble getting around unassisted. Luckily, many of the other more serious ailments and conditions are somewhat controllable. Make it a point to see your doctor annually, and then twice a year after you retire. Early detection of anything in the body can prevent an amputation or even death.  With current advancements in medications and surgical procedures the probability of survival and sustaining a good quality of life become improved.