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5 Most Common Health Concerns for Seniors

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As people age, new health concerns emerge, presenting different challenges. Being aware of the potential changes you may begin to face as a senior can help you take an active role in your health, and allow you to take the right steps to minimize your risk for disease as you age. Given that the life expectancy for those living in the United States today is longer than ever before, you will want to make sure those years are enjoyably spent in good health.

Here are some of the most common health concerns you might face as a senior:

  1. Arthritis: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that arthritis afflicts nearly 50% of all adults over the age of 65, causing them pain and lowering their quality of life. While seniors with arthritis might be less inclined to be active, it is important to work with a doctor to put together a personalized plan that works for your condition, along with any other necessary treatments.
  2. Heart Disease: Heart disease is the leading cause of death for adults over 65, according to the CDC, claiming 489,722 lives in 2014. It is an ailment that affects 37% of men and 26% of women, due to a number of risk factors such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Seniors should focus on eating well, getting enough rest, and exercising to decrease their risk for a stroke.
  3. Cancer: Cancer is the second leading cause of death for seniors. The CDC reported that 28% of men and 21% of women 65 and older are living with cancer. Through early screenings, colonoscopies, and skin checks, many types of cancers may be treatable. It cannot always be prevented, but seniors living with cancer can improve their quality of life by receiving the proper care and medical treatment as well as maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
  4. Respiratory Diseases: Respiratory diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), are another leading cause of death among seniors. Other common respiratory diseases include asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema, making older adults vulnerable to a number of infections. To preserve your quality of life, get lung function tests, take the correct medication, or use oxygen as instructed by your physician.
  5. Alzheimer’s Disease: According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 1 in 9 individuals over 65 suffer from Alzheimer’s disease, which has a major impact on the safety of seniors. Given the challenges associated with diagnosis, it is difficult to discern exactly how many people are currently living with this chronic condition.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle might not be able to prevent every disease, but it can go a long way in contributing to one’s quality of life. If you are not sure what steps to take, consult your physician for a plan that works for you.

24-Hour Skilled Nursing Home Care in Westchester County

Families who visit King Street Rehab are often impressed by our clean, spacious rooms with ample light and beautifully landscaped grounds. For those suffering from Alzheimer’s, dementia, or other cognitive disorders, we have special programs and therapies to enhance cognitive function. If your loved one is in need of long-term care, we are here to provide compassionate, round-the-clock care in a luxurious setting that makes them feel at home.

Our long-term care services include respite care, emotional and social support, memory care, on-call doctors, healthy meals prepared with fresh ingredients, Alzheimer’s care, and a location that is conveniently within close proximity to hospitals. Your loved one deserves the best and we will be sure treat them with the utmost respect and dignity.

Give us a call today at (914) 600-7149 to set up a tour and explore our facilities.

As people age, new health concerns emerge, presenting different challenges. Being aware of the potential changes you may begin to face as a senior can help you take an active role in your health, and allow you to take the right steps to minimize your risk for disease as you age. Given that the life expectancy for those living in the United States today is longer than ever before, you will want to make sure those years are enjoyably spent in good health.

Here are some of the most common health concerns you might face as a senior:

  1. Arthritis: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that arthritis afflicts nearly 50% of all adults over the age of 65, causing them pain and lowering their quality of life. While seniors with arthritis might be less inclined to be active, it is important to work with a doctor to put together a personalized plan that works for your condition, along with any other necessary treatments.
  2. Heart Disease: Heart disease is the leading cause of death for adults over 65, according to the CDC, claiming 489,722 lives in 2014. It is an ailment that affects 37% of men and 26% of women, due to a number of risk factors such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Seniors should focus on eating well, getting enough rest, and exercising to decrease their risk for a stroke.
  3. Cancer: Cancer is the second leading cause of death for seniors. The CDC reported that 28% of men and 21% of women 65 and older are living with cancer. Through early screenings, colonoscopies, and skin checks, many types of cancers may be treatable. It cannot always be prevented, but seniors living with cancer can improve their quality of life by receiving the proper care and medical treatment as well as maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
  4. Respiratory Diseases: Respiratory diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), are another leading cause of death among seniors. Other common respiratory diseases include asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema, making older adults vulnerable to a number of infections. To preserve your quality of life, get lung function tests, take the correct medication, or use oxygen as instructed by your physician.
  5. Alzheimer’s Disease: According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 1 in 9 individuals over 65 suffer from Alzheimer’s disease, which has a major impact on the safety of seniors. Given the challenges associated with diagnosis, it is difficult to discern exactly how many people are currently living with this chronic condition.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle might not be able to prevent every disease, but it can go a long way in contributing to one’s quality of life. If you are not sure what steps to take, consult your physician for a plan that works for you.

24-Hour Skilled Nursing Home Care in Westchester County

Families who visit King Street Rehab are often impressed by our clean, spacious rooms with ample light and beautifully landscaped grounds. For those suffering from Alzheimer’s, dementia, or other cognitive disorders, we have special programs and therapies to enhance cognitive function. If your loved one is in need of long-term care, we are here to provide compassionate, round-the-clock care in a luxurious setting that makes them feel at home.

Our long-term care services include respite care, emotional and social support, memory care, on-call doctors, healthy meals prepared with fresh ingredients, Alzheimer’s care, and a location that is conveniently within close proximity to hospitals. Your loved one deserves the best and we will be sure treat them with the utmost respect and dignity.

Give us a call today at (914) 600-7149 to set up a tour and explore our facilities.

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