Five Major Chronic Diseases in Older Adults and How to Manage Them
As people age, chronic diseases become increasingly common among older adults. According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), 80% of adults aged 65 and older have at least one chronic condition, and 68% have two or more. Chronic diseases not only cause physical discomfort but also impact mental health and quality of life.
1.Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
How to manage:
Limit salt and alcohol intake.
Regularly monitor blood pressure using a home blood pressure monitor and share readings with your doctor.
Maintain a healthy weight; losing 10 pounds can significantly reduce blood pressure.
Engage in appropriate physical activity to stay active.
2.High Cholesterol
How to manage:
Avoid smoking, as it raises bad cholesterol (LDL) and lowers good cholesterol (HDL).
Limit alcohol consumption to prevent increases in bad cholesterol.
Reduce saturated and trans fat intake in your diet.
Regularly check cholesterol levels and follow your doctor’s medication advice.
3.Arthritis
How to manage:
Get plenty of rest, especially during flare-ups when joints are painful, swollen, or stiff.
Consider acupuncture, which studies have shown may relieve some arthritis pain.
Use heat or cold therapy on joints to ease discomfort—effectiveness varies by individual.
Stay moderately active to prevent joint stiffness.
4.Ischemic/Coronary Heart Disease
How to manage:
Reduce saturated and trans fats in your diet, which contain cholesterol that worsens heart disease.
Aim for 7 to 9 hours of consistent sleep each night.
Manage stress effectively, as extreme stress can trigger heart problems.
Take heart medications as prescribed by your doctor.
5.Diabetes
How to manage:
Regularly monitor your blood sugar levels.
Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily to prevent infections.
Check your feet daily for cuts, blisters, redness, or swelling; contact your healthcare team immediately if you notice any persistent sores.
Follow your medication plan carefully.
General Recommendations
Healthy Diet and Exercise
Consult your doctor before making changes. Consider following a diet like DASH, which emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy while reducing sodium, saturated fats, and cholesterol. Choose exercise routines suited to your condition to stay physically active.
Managing Multiple Medications
If you have multiple chronic diseases requiring several prescriptions (polypharmacy), discuss thoroughly with your doctor and pharmacist to understand each medication’s role and potential interactions, to avoid adverse effects.
Regular Check-ups and Communication
Attend regular health check-ups, monitor your health indicators, and promptly report any changes to your healthcare provider to adjust treatments as needed.
By managing chronic diseases with proper lifestyle adjustments and medical care, older adults can maintain a higher quality of life and greater independence. Always consult healthcare professionals before making any changes to your treatment plan or if you experience new symptoms.