The amazing benefits of retirement
Getting older brings with it many amazing benefits—retirement, more time for hobbies and loved ones, not caring what others think and piles and piles of wisdom. However, it also carries several unique health issues that can make all those positive perks fade in comparison. So, if you want to have happy and healthy golden years, here are some ailments you should keep an eye on.
Arthritis
The number one health concern for seniors is definitely arthritis. It affects an astounding number of almost 50% of all people over the age of 65 and it causes a lot of pain and mobility issues. Although it can stop you from enjoying many activities, it’s really important to continue exercising which will help with your pain and reduce the damage arthritis caused. Work with your physician to create a good activity plan and you’ll significantly improve your health and general well-being.
Heart problems
Even though it doesn’t affect as many seniors as arthritis, health disease is the number one killer of people over the age of 65. As we get older, we become more susceptible to high blood pressure and cholesterol that are all major triggers for heart disease and strokes. However, if you exercise, eat well, get properly hydrated and rest often, you’ll reduce the possibility of heart issues and have peaceful and healthy senior years.
Diabetes
Almost 25% of senior citizens are suffering from diabetes which is a serious health risk that causes heart issues, stroke, nerve damage, vision loss and amputation of toes, feet, or legs. However, diabetes can be diagnosed and managed fairly easily and the sooner you find out you’re at risk, the sooner you can start to control it and improve your condition. So, make sure to conduct regular blood tests, eat healthily and maintain proper body weight.
Falls
Another type of injury that significantly increases with age – falls. Every year, millions of seniors end up in an emergency room due to fall-induced injuries and many of those people often find themselves in a similar position within the same year! So, make sure to tread carefully and always seek support when maneuvering difficult terrains. Be especially careful on slippery floors and around stairs!
Dementia
Another very serious disease that strikes seniors is Alzheimer’s or dementia. About 10% of all people aged 65 and older suffer from this condition, but the number can be higher due to diagnosis challenges. However, what experts are sure of is that it has a huge impact on senior living and is a cause of many difficulties. It causes various safety issues, self-care inability and affects the general quality of life and well-being. Luckily there are numerous facilities that help people battle dementia. For instance, a specialized nursing home at NewDirection Care has a whole community of people with dementia or younger onset dementia where they can get all the care they need and still lead happy and peaceful lives. These facilities allow their residents to socialise, enjoy their hobbies, be a part of a community and get the assistance they need.
Obesity
Another health risk that can seriously affect the quality of life is obesity. It is the root cause of heart issues, diabetes, cancer and many other ailments that can put a stain on your golden years. The number of overweight seniors is really big—over 40% of those between 65 and 75 have a body mass index larger than 30! So, make sure to watch your calorie intake and stay active to maintain a healthy weight.
Don’t neglect your health as you get older! There are many, many more years of happiness, excitement and laughter in front of you, so don’t let them be ruined by ailments and pain. See your doctor regularly, eat healthily and be active to have amazing retirement!
