The older we get, the more changes that our body goes through. We undergo transformations that can unfortunately increase our vulnerability to a variety of different health conditions. Despite aging being a natural part of life, and an inevitable part of existence, staying aware of the most common health risks can help you prevent them.
Knowledge is power, and by being aware of the risks, we can take preventative measures to maintain better health overall. Here are some of the biggest health risks that come along with getting older and what you can do to prevent and manage them.
Heart Disease
Our hearts are at the forefront of our overall health. If our heart is in poor condition, then everything else will crumble around it. Despite how important our hearts are, many people neglect them.
Unfortunately, heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death in older adults across the globe. This is because as we get older our arteries start to build up plaque and we may suffer from high blood pressure as a result.
On the more dramatic end of the scale, we may even experience a heart attack or a stroke. You can improve your cardiovascular health by exercising and eating a healthy diet. Exercising regularly, even if it’s something as simple as going for a brisk walk, can substantially lower our chances of developing heart disease.
Brittle Bones
As we get older, particularly after menopause, our bones become more fragile and susceptible to fractures. Hip fractures in particular can severely impact our lifestyle, and unfortunately, can reduce our mobility and independence.
Unfortunately, this is because our bone density lowers as we get older. Vitamin D and calcium deficiencies can make this an even bigger problem. That’s why it’s so important that you maintain your bone strength by engaging in physical activity, and of course, consuming an adequate amount of calcium and vitamin D through supplements or foods.
If you notice any signs of brittle bones, it’s important that you discuss solutions with your doctor, as taking action sooner rather than later is always ideal.
Cognitive Decline
The older that we get, the more likely we are to suffer brief moments of forgetfulness. Whether it’s forgetting where our keys are, or forgetting to pay a bill, these little slip ups are not uncommon. However, some older adults start to experience full-fledged cognitive decline.
While genetic factors and lifestyle can contribute to the risk of cognitive decline, that’s not to say you can’t do your best to slow down the progress or avoid it coming on at all. Keep your brain as active as possible with activities like reading and even doing puzzles. Besides keeping your brain active, you should also keep your body as active as possible. The simple act of exercising improves blood flow to the brain, and ultimately your brain health.
Leave a Reply