People in the U.S. are expected to live longer than ever today. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), reports that at age 65, average life expectancy is an additional 19.3 years.

However, growing older can come with health challenges. Lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, losing weight, exercising regularly, and eating a healthy diet can help you avoid some of the chronic health problems associated with aging. The following are the top ten health concerns affecting seniors.

Arthritis

Arthritis may be the most prevalent chronic health condition among older people in the U.S. According to CDC, the risk of arthritis increases with age. From 2013 to 2015, 49.6% of people ages 65 or older reported medically diagnosed arthritis. A personalized treatment plan can help manage this condition for better quality of life in your golden years.

Heart Disease

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death among adults ages 65 and older. It is important to manage high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and any condition that could increase your risk of heart attack or stroke.

Cancer

People ages 65 and older have a greater incidence of cancer and higher cancer-related mortality rates than younger people. Reported in Oncology Nursing Society, the risk of developing cancer dramatically increases to between 20% and 30% for people older than 60. Many types of cancer are treatable if caught in the early stages, so it is important for seniors to have regular screenings.

Respiratory Disease

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common cause of death among senior citizens. Asthma, emphysema, and COPD can worsen as you grow older. Medications and oxygen can help older people with respiratory disease.

Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s affects one in nine people ages 65 and older. Recognizing the early warning signs and receiving early intervention and treatment can help slow the progression of this disease.

Osteoporosis and Osteoarthritis

Millions of adults in the U.S. over the age of 50 have osteoporosis or low bone mass. Nearly all adults 80 or older have some form of osteoarthritis. Regular exercise and a healthy diet including calcium and vitamin D can help protect your bones and joints.

Diabetes

A large percentage of older adults are living with Type II diabetes. Making lifestyle changes including exercise and weight loss can help lower your risk for this disease and improve your overall health.

Pneumonia and Influenza

Senior citizens are more vulnerable to pneumonia and the flu than younger people. Check with your doctor about an annual flu shot and a pneumonia vaccine.

Falls

The CDC reports that falls are a leading cause of injury and death among older Americans. An older adult falls every second of every day. Falls are unfortunately, the number one cause of injury and deaths from injuries among seniors in the U.S. As most falls occur in the home, it would be wise to remove any tripping or slipping hazards to help reduce the risk of serious injury.

Obesity

The obesity epidemic affects people of all ages. Obesity is a major risk factor for seniors in serious health conditions including diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. Getting regular exercise and eating a healthy diet are very important for seniors – and people of all ages.

Alert Systems for Seniors

There is no denying that growing older comes with certain health risks. It is important to know you can get help immediately should a health emergency occur. That’s when alert systems for seniors come in. You can call an operator with the push of a button on a bracelet or pendant, no matter where you are if a sudden fall or other health emergency arises. See our medical alert reviews for information about the latest alert systems for seniors and the features available.