Top 10 Heath Concerns
Research has shown that people who eat healthy, stay active and avoid tobacco use can significantly lower their risk of developing many of the chronic health conditions we often associate with aging.
Featured below are key pointers about the Top 10 health issues for baby boomers.
1) Type 2 Diabetes
People with diabetes are two to four times more likely to have heart disease or a stroke.
Obesity is one of the leading risk factors for diabetes.
3) Cancer
Cancer is the second leading cause of death among people age 65 and older.
Make healthy dietary choices, exercise, avoid tobacco products and maintain a healthy weight.
Screen as appropriate to detect cancer at early stages
5) Eye Problems
Untreated macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness in people over age 55.
With treatment, the progression of the disease may be stopped or slowed.
Annual eye exams can help catch vision problems in their earliest stages.
7) Osteoarthritis
Daily exercise such as walking, aquatic therapy and yoga can assist in maintaining joint flexibility
Maintaining a healthy weight is key in preventing excessive pressure on your joints
9) Flu/Pneumonia
Influenza and pneumonia and are among the top 10 causes of death for older adults.
Vaccinations are now widely available for both diseases and are usually covered by health insurance or available at a very low cost.
2) Heart Disease
Avoid tobacco use, control their blood pressure and cholesterol
Exercise and eat a low-fat, low-sodium diet to maintain a healthy body weight
4) Depression
Depression is NOT a normal process of aging
Very important for you to accept that you need help.
Your primary care physician is a great start for help.
6) Alzheimer’s
Sixth leading cause of death in the U.S., Alzheimer’s disease is most common in people age 65 and older.
A close link between brain health and overall health of the heart and blood vessels
Avoid tobacco and eat a balanced diet
Regular physical activity can help maintain brain health.
8) Osteoporosis
Tobacco and alcohol use earlier in life can increase risk, as can being underweight
Talk to your doctor about calcium supplements and other treatments that can help prevent osteoporosis.
10. “Sandwich Generation” Stress
In addition to caring for their own families, many boomers are caring for elderly parents.
It’s important to take care of yourself first
Make an effort to get enough sleep, eat right, and exercise regularly.
No one else but YOU is responsible for how healthy you are. Stop smoking and drink only in moderation. Get off the couch. Get moving whether it be walking, exercising or dancing. The key is to MOVE and get your blood pumping to enhance your brain health.
Our circle of friends dwindle when we retire unless we take deliberate steps to replace the colleagues we lose. An effective way to avoid feeling depressed is to network with others.
Learn new skills, become active on Facebook, set up a website to share your views with people, far and wide, now and forever. Better still, immortalize yourself or your loved ones by hosting their memorable milestones online.