As we age, our bodies change, and our immunities drop. Most seniors will experience common medical conditions that can be prevented or treated with proper care. Some seniors may also have to deal with more serious ailments that require ongoing treatment for the rest of their lives. Don’t let this deter you from making your loved one as comfortable as possible. If you have an aging loved one, you need to get them to a senior care facility at least once every year. If they already have any chronic conditions, regular visits to Thomas Nguyen M.D., M.S., a senior care physician in the Boynton Beach area, can allow frequent monitoring. This article looks at some of the most common conditions that affect seniors.
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Dementia
Dementia is a syndrome that affects the brain and causes a decline in mental abilities. Symptoms can include memory loss, impaired thinking and reasoning, and changes in mood or behavior. Dementia is progressive, which means it gets worse over time. There is no cure for dementia, but there are treatments available that can help manage the symptoms.
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Incontinence
Incontinence is the inability to control urination or bowel movements. It can be caused by several factors, including weak muscles, nerve damage, and medications. Incontinence can be embarrassing and frustrating for seniors, but treatments can help improve symptoms.
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Arthritis
Arthritis is a condition that causes pain and inflammation in the joints. It can affect people of all ages, but it is most common in seniors. It causes symptoms such as joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. There is no cure for arthritis, but there are treatments available that can help reduce symptoms.
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Heart Disease
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. It is a condition that affects the heart and blood vessels and can lead to several health problems, including heart attack and stroke. There is no cure for heart disease, but treatments can help reduce the risk of severe health problems.
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Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a condition that causes bones to become thin and weak. It is most common in seniors and can lead to fractures, pain, and disability. People with osteoporosis are also at a higher risk of suffering from osteoarthritis. There is no cure for osteoporosis, but treatments can help reduce disability and increase bone density.
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Depression
Depression is a common mental health condition that affects people of all ages. Most seniors develop depression due to losing loved ones, decreased mobility, and financial problems. Symptoms can include changes in appetite or sleep patterns, fatigue, feelings of sadness or hopelessness, lack of enjoyment in everyday activities, irritability, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating. A physician can screen for depression and help you or your loved one get the treatment they need through senior care.
To summarize, our immunities drop as we age, which explains why seniors have to deal with many conditions, some appearing more frequently than others. Some of the most common conditions that affect seniors include depression, arthritis, osteoporosis, heart disease, dementia, and incontinence. If you have a senior among your family, senior care facilities can help prevent or address these problems.
