Humans are living longer than ever before. They are living 8 more years than they did in the 1970’s, with today’s average life expectancy averaging 78 years in the United States. With attention to maintaining a healthy body and mind through mindful eating, daily exercise and stress reduction techniques, many are reaching this age still rating their health as good and their lives as productive. The following are the health issues that most frequently plague the elderly and what they can do to lessen their chances of developing these often dependency-producing diseases.
Home Health Care South Miami FL – Common Health Issues Associated with Aging
Obesity
According to an article in LiveScience, obesity rates among the elderly are on the rise. In the U.S., more than one in four adults over the age of 64 can be termed obese. Carrying extra weight can increase the risk of developing several chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. Eating foods as close to their natural state and getting the body into gear with some type of aerobic exercise is the best way to reduce weight and ensure vitality into the elder years.
Falls
According to the National Council on Aging, older adults are treated every 15 seconds in the emergency room for a fall which is the leading cause of fractures in this age group. Most of these falls occur in the home. Help your loved one maintain a safe environment by removing throw rugs, moving obstacles, installing grab bars and anti-skid mats in the bathroom, and ensuring good lighting throughout the home.
Chronic Disease
The number of elderly individuals that have at least one chronic disease is staggering—a whopping 92 percent. These diseases include diabetes, heart disease, cancer, stroke, arthritis, osteoporosis and COPD. The effects of these diseases can be reduced through a healthy diet and exercise routine. Consider an abundance of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables as well as foods containing omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon and other cold water fish, as well as wild-game meats.
Cognitive Decline
Cognitive decline is associated with loss of memory, judgment and reasoning. At one time, memory loss was considered a normal part of the aging process. With more and more individuals living well into their 80’s with their memory intact, that belief is lessening. Its effects vary widely from mild cognitive impairment to dementia. Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia and affects as many as 5 million seniors in the U.S. Maintain a healthy lifestyle in order to prevent this insidious process. This includes stopping smoking and limiting the intake of alcoholic beverages.
Home Health Care
If your loved one suffers from a chronic disease or injury and is in need of assistance with the daily activities of living, consider the services of a home health care provider. These professionals also run errands including grocery shopping, prepare healthy meals and accompany your parent on daily walks or to their favorite exercise class. In doing so, they help promote a life of balance and health.
Resources: http://flowingdata.com/2009/10/02/how-long-people-live-in-america/
http://www.livescience.com/49587-obesity-rates-older-adults.html
