Spotlight: Most Common Health Issues in Older Adults

common health conditions in older people

What are the most common health issues in older adults and how can we prevent or treat them? Read on to find out.

As people age, the body undergoes many changes. There are also health conditions that come with this. There are changes to their physical condition and there are also some that pose serious health risks.

So how can we help prevent these common health issues in older adults? What can we do when their health and mental acuity go into a decline? Below are the 5 most common age-related health issues that you have to learn about.

common health conditions in older people

5 Most Common Health Issues in Older Adults

  1. Skin. Wrinkles, age spots, loss of skin elasticity, and dryness. These commonly occur as people age. Older people tend to perspire less and this may cause dryness. There’s also the loss of fat and collagen as the skin thins. Apart from these, any medication they ‘re taking may also affect the skin’s texture.
    To keep skin health, do the following:

    • Protect from sun exposure through sunscreen
    • Get an annual full-body skin check from a dermatologist
    • Prevent skin dryness and itching by increasing humidity and proper moisturization of skin
    • Go easy on soaps and perfumes as well as hot showers
    • Keep hydrated at all times
  2. Teeth and Gums. Dry mouth is common in older people and this can cause a plethora of teeth and gum problems. Dry mouth can make teeth more prone to cavity. However, medication may cause dry mouth, so proper precautions must be taken.
    • Regular brushing of teeth
    • Regular flossing
    • cleaning dentures properly and regularly
    • Relieve dry mouth by drinking more water and using mouthwash moisturizer or oral spray
    • Visit the dentist regularly
    • Quit smoking
  3. Senses. Vision and hearing are the two most affected by aging. Eyesight diminishes as we age. Also, hearing loss can become prevalent in older people.
    • Get a yearly eye and ear exam
    • Eat nutritious food that promote eye health
    • Wear eye protection
    • Avoid exposure to loud noises
    • Turn down the volume of the television
  4. Bones and Joints. Bones and joints undergo wear and tear over the years and these can be felt by the time people reach old age. There are also age-related conditions such as osteoporosis and arthritis. The following can be taken to prevent osteoporosis and arthritis:
    • Have a bone mass density scan
    • Participate in weight-bearing exercises or strength and resistance training appropriate for your age
    • Consume calcium-rich foods or take calcium supplements
    • Get Vitamin D in your diet as well
    • Control your weight to avoid stress on joints
    • Wear proper equipment to avoid injury to joints
    • Eat a nutritious diet
  5. Urogenital. This may be less talked about, but urogenital conditions are prevalent in older people and affect their daily life. Urinary incontinence, urinary tract infections, and an enlarged prostrate are among the conditions common in older people. To prevent these, do the following:
    • Know the factors that affect bladder health. Medications, coffee, and alcohol affect bladder movement.
    • Practice good health habits
    • Stay physically active

The bottom line is, adults must be intentional when it comes to maintaining good health and proper nutrition to keep them healthy as they age.

blog footer image

Join the conversation