Health demands change with age, becoming more complex and frustrating at times, especially for seniors. Understanding this and taking preventative action can greatly improve their quality of life. The good news is that they can get the support and resources they need from home care providers and their medical team, along with support from their loved ones.
Some of the most common concerns are explored below.
Heart-Related Conditions
One of the biggest causes of death for seniors is still heart disease. Seniors are prone to conditions like heart failure, atherosclerosis, and hypertension. It is essential to regularly evaluate blood pressure, cholesterol, and cardiac function through check-ups.
Furthermore, leading a heart-healthy lifestyle that includes abstaining from tobacco, eating a balanced diet low in saturated fats, and exercising frequently can significantly lower the risk of cardiovascular problems.
Enlisting the services of a home care agency can help your senior loved one mitigate these heart-related conditions.
Joint and Bone Health
Osteoporosis and arthritis are typical issues for seniors, resulting in reduced mobility and a higher risk of fractures. Engaging in weight-bearing activities and consuming enough calcium and vitamin D can help maintain bone density and strength. Joint-friendly exercises like tai chi or swimming help preserve joint function while easing the stiffness and pain of arthritis.
Deterioration of Cognitive Function
Cognitive impairment associated with aging can result in diseases like Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia. While some degree of cognitive loss is inevitable as people age, lifestyle choices can lessen the severity of this decline. Maintaining social connections through home care assistance, controlling cardiovascular risk factors with regular exercise, and eating a balanced diet can all help promote brain health.
Handling Diabetes
As people age, type 2 diabetes grows more common and, if left untreated, poses serious health hazards. Seniors should routinely monitor their blood sugar levels, adhere to dietary guidelines, engage in physical activity to increase their sensitivity to insulin and take any prescribed medications or insulin in accordance with their doctor’s instructions.
As they age, effectively monitoring these levels becomes increasingly difficult for seniors, and home care providers can help keep an eye on their diabetes and other health issues.
Loss of Hearing and Vision
Age-related hearing and vision impairments might impact independence and quality of life. Routine eye exams and hearing tests are crucial for the early diagnosis and treatment of problems, including cataracts, macular degeneration, and hearing loss. Seniors can retain their sensory abilities and improve their general well-being by using assistive devices, hearing aids, and corrective lenses.
What Preventive Healthcare Steps Can Seniors Take?
Preventive healthcare addresses individual health issues and is essential to senior wellness. Seniors might consider immunizations to help guard against shingles, pneumonia, and influenza, as well as health screening for prostate, colorectal, and breast cancer.
Additionally, routine dental treatment is crucial for maintaining oral health and avoiding diseases like gum disease and tooth decay. Home care services can help seniors list their concerns about these things or ask questions so they can talk with their medical team and make an informed decision.
Senior health is complicated, so navigating it requires a proactive strategy that includes a strong support team of loved ones, home care providers, and the medical team.
If you or an aging loved one needs Home Care services in Roseville, CA, contact A Better Living Home Care today (916) 514-7006
Sources:
- https://americanseniortrust.com/a-helpful-guide-to-navigating-healthcare-as-a-senior/
- https://familydoctor.org/preventative-care-seniors/
- https://www.helpguide.org/articles/alzheimers-dementia-aging/staying-healthy-as-you-age.htm
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