Common Conditions of Associated with Advancing Age

A healthy diet is the key to prevention.

Hypertension

High Blood Pressure, often called Hypertension, abbreviated as (HTN), is a chronic condition where blood flowing in the arteries is at a consistently high pressure. About 61% of seniors have hypertension. HTN has been defined as a blood pressure of 130/80 mm Hg or higher. Medical professionals refer to hypertension as ‘the silent killer’. It often presents with no symptoms. And it is only noticed after there is significant damage to the brain, kidneys or the heart. Untreated high blood pressure can increase your risk of heart attack, stroke and other serious health problems. Vascular dementia can be another condition linked to high blood pressure.

While heredity is a contributing factor, most of the risks can be mitigated with lifestyle changes. Decreasing salt intake, exercise, weight loss, quitting smoking, decreasing alcohol, and reducing stress will get you on track. Compliance with prescribed medications, including diuretics, calcium channel blockers, or ACE inhibitors can help keep your blood pressure under control.

High Cholesterol

It is estimated that fifty-five percent of older adults have high cholesterol. This is a condition that occurs when your body has an excess of bad fats or saturated fats and trans fats. It is like hypertension in that you are basically symptom free until you have a major problem. It results in clogged arteries and this can lead to heart disease, chest pain and heart attack, atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries due to plaque buildup, and a higher risk of stroke.

Genetics is one contributing factor, a diet high in saturated and trans fats (like red meat, full fat dairy, and processed snacks) is another. Inactivity and obesity increase your risk of high cholesterol, as well as, smoking, thyroid issues, diabetes, and certain medications like diuretics, and steroids. Lifestyle changes, like regular aerobic exercise and a heart-healthy diet can decrease your risk. Statin drugs are commonly prescribed to lower LDL cholesterol.

Arthritis

About 51% of older adults suffer from arthritis. This condition is an inflammation of your joints, which causes pain and stiffness. This condition is more common in women but, men can be afflicted with arthritis.

It is possible to delay the onset for arthritis or manage it's symptoms. Keep within your recommended weight. It is estimated that for every pound lost, is like removing four pounds of pressure on your lower extremities, knees. Regular exercise is another thing that can be done to manage symptoms. It should be for at least 30 minutes, five times a week, and be a mixture of stretching, aerobic, and strength-building. Quitting smoking is another method of prevention or mitigating symptoms.

Obesity

Obesity occurs in seen in 40% of adults 65 and older. This is a chronic disease that is linked to more than 200 other chronic conditions. Nutritional guidance and a quality weight-loss program, including exercise can help to shed the pounds.

Diabetes

24% of older adults have diabetes. This is a disease that occurs when your body doesn’t produce enough insulin or when there is an insulin resistance. Insulin is produced in the pancreas and helps converts food to energy. When this mechanism is blocked it leads to high blood sugar. Complications of chronic high blood sugar are heart disease, and renal disease, reduced circulation in your extremities, and blindness. Strict nutritional guidance, decreasing alcohol intake, and controlled weight loss can help lower blood sugar levels in addition to an exercise program.

This rounds out our list of the top five chronic diseases. One consistent theme is how quitting smoking, lowering alcohol intake, weight control and an appropriate diet can lead to a healthier life in your golden years.

Todd Reeb, RN, MBA