Unfortunately, gender, family genetics, and age almost make it impossible for the elderly not to become a chronic disease statistic. According to the available data, around 95% of adults over 60 have at least one condition, while around 79% have two or more. To make matters worse, obesity impacts about 42% of this age group, and carrying excess weight may increase the chances of developing chronic diseases in the elderly, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and even some malignancies.
What can people do to avoid these common chronic diseases as they age? Apart from the option for chronic care management after a diagnosis, the expert team of Dr. Ivan Carreras, MD, at Carreras Medical Center has created this comprehensive list of the most common chronic diseases and a few steps on how to decrease the risks of developing them.
Most Common Chronic Diseases in The Elderly
So, without further ado, here are some common chronic diseases that are the most prevalent among the elderly.
COPD or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Around eleven percent of older individuals in the US are dealing with COPD, a chronic disease that includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. COPD makes it patients difficult to breathe and may cause chest tightness, coughing, and shortness of breath.
The best way to slow the progression of this condition (or prevent it) is by quitting smoking. Also, people should try to avoid dust, chemical fumes, and secondhand smoke that may irritate their lungs.
Dementia and Alzheimer’s
When it comes to age-related diseases, Alzheimer’s disease or some other form of dementia are also prominent chronic diseases. Alzheimer’s is a specific dementia type, leading to difficulties thinking and memory loss, to the point that it will make even daily activities challenging.
Unfortunately, the most significant risk factors for these diseases are mostly genetic, family-, and age-related. Still, some studies suggest that lifestyle changes like regular exercise, quality sleep, and healthy diet choices may slow down or even prevent the onset of dementia or Alzheimer’s.
Depression
This mental illness is also among the most common chronic diseases that may occur in the elderly. Depression isn’t a part of aging, and it is a treatable problem.
Fortunately, there are several things people can do to combat depression. They may try meditation, manage their stress levels, stick to a healthy diet and exercise regimen, and more. Also, they can opt for expert help, which may include therapy and the use of antidepressants in more severe cases.
Heart Failure
This condition develops when the heart is unable to effectively supply oxygen and blood to every organ in the body. This may lead to heart enlargement, which will make it pump faster to meet the needs of the body, resulting in tiredness, lack of appetite, confusion, and nausea.
CKD or Chronic Kidney Disease
Around a quarter of older adults were treated with CKD or other kidney problems among those on Medicare. People with CKD are at a higher risk of developing kidney failure and heart disease.
Still understanding what damages the kidneys (like hypertension and diabetes) and trying to limit or prevent those may keep your kidney health intact as well. On the other hand, discovering the problem and treating it early through regular screenings can also help a long way.
Diabetes
Another common chronic disease, diabetes, develops when the body is unable to make enough insulin or becomes resistant to it. The body produces insulin to get energy from food, distributing it to the rest of the body and cells. When this does not occur, people get high blood sugar, which can lead to blindness, heart disease, or kidney problems.
Still, eating a healthy diet, limiting alcohol consumption, incorporating regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent or keep the disease under control.
Coronary Heart Disease (Ischemic Heart Disease)
This is another common, mostly age-related disease, which is caused by plaque buildup in the arteries that lead to the heart. The blocked or narrowed arteries decrease the amount of blood that reaches the heart, causing complications like angina, blood clots, or even heart attacks.
Eating a diet low in trans and saturated fats, getting enough sleep, controlling stress, engaging in regular cardiovascular exercise, limiting salt and sugar intake, and abstaining from smoking may all help slow down or prevent the condition.
Arthritis
Arthritis is painful joint inflammation, which also causes stiffness. Fortunately, with regular exercise and abstaining from smoking, people may be able to delay the onset of the condition. In other cases, incorporating a versatile training regimen that includes stretching movements, strength-building exercises, and aerobic exercises, along with weight management, may help with symptom management.
High Cholesterol
Among the chronic diseases in the elderly, high cholesterol stands out as one of the most prevalent. This is a condition in which the body stores an excess amount of lipids (bad fats) that lead to clogged arteries, resulting in heart problems.
Still, with the right strategies, people may manage or even prevent high cholesterol, such as trying to be active every day, effective weight management, and abstaining from overconsuming alcohol or smoking. Also, just like in the case of chronic heart disease, minimizing saturated and trans fat intake can help a great deal.
High Blood Pressure
Approximately 60% of elderly individuals have received treatment for hypertension, a prevalent medical condition characterized by two key factors: the volume of blood pumped by the heart and the resistance encountered by arteries during blood circulation. High blood pressure, or hypertension, occurs when the heart pumps an increased amount of blood while facing narrowed arteries that impede the flow. The peril of hypertension lies in its often asymptomatic nature, allowing it to persist undetected for extended periods and in its potential to lead to severe health complications, including stroke and heart attacks.
Fortunately, there are several steps people may take to reduce high blood pressure, such as maintaining a healthy weight, reducing stress, limiting their alcohol and salt intake, incorporating daily exercise, and regular blood pressure checks to prevent the problem early on.
When All This Doesn’t Seem To Work
As we navigate the complexities of aging, it’s crucial to stay informed and take proactive steps to protect our health. Explore our comprehensive resources on managing and preventing age-related chronic diseases for a healthier future.
Whether it’s making dietary adjustments, adopting an exercise routine, or seeking regular medical check-ups, taking action today can significantly reduce your risk of these conditions.
Together, we can empower ourselves to lead healthier, happier lives in our golden years. That said, feel free to schedule an appointment with us today. Our expert and experienced team is ready to help you with all your questions and concerns.
