What Are Some Of The Most Common Health Problems For People Over Age 50?

As you age, you’re likely to experience health issues that didn’t bother you when you were younger. Your body’s metabolism slows down and cannot fight off infections and certain diseases, putting you at risk of developing health problems.  While some symptoms like memory loss and slower reaction times are expected as we age, others may indicate serious health issues that you should speak with your doctor about. The older you get, the more likely your body will start to break down or wear out over time, especially if you’ve led an active lifestyle and have not taken care of yourself properly. While some things can be done to slow down the effects of aging, it’s essential to recognize some of the most common problems experienced by older adults over age 50.

Vision problem (Presbyopia)

As we age, it’s not uncommon to develop vision issues.  More than 24 million Americans older than age 50 have presbyopia or a condition of diminished eyesight.  At first, your eye doctor might prescribe reading glasses to help with headaches and eyestrain—but you should continue to see an eye doctor regularly so they can determine whether other treatments will be necessary.  Your optometrist may recommend bifocals, trifocals, or progressive lenses that help provide clear vision at all distances.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Arthritis is a disease that causes pain and stiffness in joints.  Over time, it can damage bones and cause deformities.  Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic condition caused by an immune disorder, making daily tasks more challenging to complete.  While there’s no known cure for rheumatoid arthritis, there are ways to manage symptoms of flare-ups and keep active despite physical restrictions.  Treatment plans should be personalized to each patient’s specific needs, but some general recommendations include taking prescribed medications, participating in physical therapy, and using splints or braces as needed.

Hip Problems

Nearly 75% of people over age fifty will have hip pain, and that number increases to 90% when you reach age 60.  This hip pain results from wear and tear on joints that become more susceptible to injury as we age.  Taking part in activities like weight-bearing exercises (e.g., walking, jogging) can help prevent knee, hip, and spine injuries later in life.

Make sure you’re getting enough calcium—about 1,000 mg per day—and omega-3 fatty acids by eating salmon two times per week or taking supplements.  When shopping for foods high in omega-3s, such as flaxseed oil and walnuts, look for those labeled colds pressed because they retain their nutrients better.

Osteoporosis

One of the main factors contributing to osteoporosis in people over 50 is lower estrogen levels in women after menopause.  Calcium absorption, muscle mass, and weight-bearing exercise can help boost bone density and reduce one’s risk of osteoporosis.  Although it’s a natural part of aging, it’s essential to be aware of any new symptoms or changes you notice—like back pain or frequent falls—and talk with your doctor about best managing your condition.

Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia

Over 10 million Americans over 50 are estimated to have Alzheimer’s disease or related dementia.  These conditions usually develop after age 50, and women get them earlier than men.  As with most medical conditions, lifestyle choices play a role in whether you develop Alzheimer’s or dementia later in life.  It’s not entirely clear why your odds of developing these diseases increase as you age. Still, it’s thought that keeping your brain active and treating any underlying medical conditions can help stave off dementia later in life.  In addition, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and staying socially engaged may also help lower your risk.  Your risk of getting Alzheimer’s is higher if you carry specific genes (such as APOE4).

Type 2 Diabetes

As we age, our bodies become less sensitive to insulin.  The resulting insulin resistance leads to type 2 diabetes.  Diabetes is a long-term condition in which your blood glucose (sugar) levels are too high because your body doesn’t produce or use insulin well.  Untreated diabetes can cause many severe complications, including heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and blindness.  Type 2 diabetes is preventable; quitting smoking and being physically active can reduce your risk of developing it or help slow down its progression. You can delay or even prevent type 2 diabetes by losing weight through diet and exercise; significantly, it would lower your chances of developing full-blown type 2 diabetes within five years.  In addition to lifestyle changes, some medications may be used to control symptoms and improve blood sugar control.

Hearing Loss

Although it can affect people of all ages, you’re more likely to experience hearing loss when you are over age 50.  If a conversation has more than two or three people speaking, it can be challenging to pick out which words they’re saying.  Hearing aids and other assistive devices, can you help with that.  Even if you don’t feel like your hearing is declining, it never hurts to have your ears checked by an audiologist from time to time.  You might discover that your hearing is worse than you thought.

Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea is a severe problem common among people over age 50.  You could have it but not even know it.  If you notice snoring or difficulty breathing during sleep and find yourself tired throughout your day, consult with your doctor to see if you have sleep apnea.  This disorder can cause high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke, possibly from chronic sleep deprivation, impotence and irritability, and fatigue.  Be sure to get help early on to avoid these risks.

Depression and Anxiety

About 15% of adults aged 50 and older will experience clinical depression.  This number jumps to 30% in older adults with diabetes.  It’s essential to be aware of your risk factors; it may be treatable with medication or lifestyle changes if you suffer from mood swings.  If you think you might be depressed, visit your doctor or talk to a mental health professional.

Knowing specific health problems associated with people over age fifty should help you plan your life, diet, and day-to-day activities.  It is essential to understand what could be causing these issues to take preventative measures.  For example, high blood pressure can lead to heart disease, one of the leading causes of death in older adults.  You must visit your doctor regularly so they can monitor any potential issues.  This will also allow them to prescribe treatments or lifestyle changes that may be necessary.  If you have any questions about your health, it is always good to ask your doctor or other medical professionals.

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