The Increased Health Risks that come with Age

Even though we may become wiser and more astute in old age, there are several health implications that often cannot be avoided. It is important to stay active and healthy throughout life to avoid serious illness, but suffering from age-related concerns is ultimately inevitable.

It is important to be aware of the most common issues so we can care for and protect loved ones as well as plan for our own future. Here are some of the typical health risks that come with age.

Disease 

Common diseases as you get older include: diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases and mental disorders. While poor nutrition, a lack of physical activity or excessive use of tobacco or alcohol will increase the risk of suffering from one of these conditions, in some cases they are hereditary or just a consequence of getting old.

According to the World Health Organisation, the aforementioned problems account for an estimated 77% of people with disease and 86% of deaths in Europe. It also states that premature death decreases by 50 per cent if people aged between 60-75 years stop smoking. 

Frailty 

The risk of falling is notably increased in old age, with our bodies not being as strong as they once were. Related injuries often result in hospitalisation or even long-term residential care.

There are certain preventative measures we can take to ensure the associated risks of frailty are minimised. However, in certain circumstances, broken bones or a head injury may not be because of age, and the individual could be eligible to make a compensation claim.

Mobility

When you consider how much we use our muscles and joints throughout our lifetime, it is no real surprise that our ability to get around will be comprised with age. In order to get around and stay mobile, the elderly often need assistance in the form of a walking stick or wheelchair.

One common health condition is arthritis, a form of joint disorder resulting in pain. This is due to inflammation around the joint and damage to the area in question. Although not severe, arthritis can start as early as middle age, so it is important to be aware of the problem.

Vision 

One of the most common eye-related problems is presbyopia, with anyone over the age of 35 at risk. The condition is somewhat inevitable, as when the eye lens loses its flexibility, focusing on certain objects becomes increasingly difficult.

Reading glasses, bifocals, trifocals and contact lenses can help alleviate the effects of presbyopia. However, as the eye continues to age and loses its ability to function correctly, repeat prescriptions may be necessary.

Mental health

Problems communicating, mood swings and a loss of memory are typical old age attributes and are the tell-tale signs of conditions like dementia. These symptoms occur because diseases like Alzheimer’s and possible strokes damage the brain. 

Unfortunately, symptoms tend to get worse as a victim gets older. However in recent times, living with the problem has become easier thanks to more charities, support networks and a greater understanding of the condition.