Common Health Concerns Seniors Face and What to Do About Them
By the time you reach your golden years, your mind and body have seen a lot. We all want to feel strong and happy throughout life, but sometimes it’s hard when a health issue is shadowing your days. Read on for some of the common concerns seniors face and what you can do if something sounds all too familiar.
Tossing and Turning
Do you tend to count sheep every night, only to find you struggle to feel alert during the day? If so, you aren’t alone. In fact, insomnia is so common among older adults that many people think it’s normal. However, nothing could be further from the truth. You still need a good night’s sleep, and ideally, this will come without relying on medication.
With that goal in mind, address whatever might be keeping you up at night. You might have an underlying medical condition, or it might be as simple as neck and back pain. Your doctor should address medical issues, but there are plenty of things you can do about back pain and getting sleep. The first place to look is your mattress.
Put Pain to Rest
An old, sagging, unsupportive mattress can lead to joint and back discomfort, and similarly, a poorly chosen mattress can leave you aching and sore. Consider both what hurts and what position you like sleeping in, as both contribute to the most appropriate bedding solution for you.
Try Alternative Therapies
Of course, a new mattress isn’t the only thing that can improve back and joint comfort. Another way to feel better is to visit a chiropractor. Chiropractic care can alleviate pain, increase flexibility, boost activity levels, and you might even find you get sick less often.
Healthline notes Medicare covers some chiropractic services under parts B and C, so check your coverage to see if you can get help paying for visits.
Bust Out of the Blues
Many seniors experience loneliness due to leading isolated lives. If your family is far away and you don’t have the opportunity to maintain connections like you used to, it can really bring you down, and the CDC notes seniors often havereduced health as a result; higher risk of dementia, depression, and premature death are just a few of the potential consequences.
End Isolation Through Assisted Living
At a time in life when staying connected is vital, and while also experiencing other age-related concerns, assisted living offers a positive solution. Transitioning to an environment that offers a built-in social life, trained support staff, a senior-friendly environment and the independence to come and go as you please is an enticing option. However, it’s important to research local options so you can choose one that fits both your needs and your preferences. With a little looking, you’ll see there is something for everyone.
More to Smile About
Oral health appears to go hand-in-hand with overall health, and when one declines, the other often does as well. For instance, arthritis, high blood pressure, diabetes, and emphysema are all linked with oral health. Yet seniors often do without dental health care coverage, and as a result, they experience negative consequences.
Look Into Low-Cost Options
Of course, routine trips to a dentist can add up. Rather than letting those appointments slide, search out some low-cost alternatives. Dental schools, community clinics, and dentists who donate services are all possibilities. Reach out to your local health department to find out about options in your area. Also, consider reviewing your Medicare choices when Open Enrollment rolls around since some Medicare Advantage plans cover dental services.
The Angst of Inactivity
Gone are the days when seniors were felt to be better off leading quiet lives. In fact, you might be surprised to learn that being physically active can help you with all of the concerns mentioned above; exercising can help you sleep better, it’s a natural mood-booster, and it can reduce joint and back pain. And yes, it can even improve your oral health!
Join ClubX Fitness
ClubX Fitness offers everything you need to create a health regimen tailored to your lifestyle. Personal trainers, nutrition counseling, and physical therapy are just a few of the services they offer. To create a plan that will help you thrive, call (305) 667 3539.
While the above issues are common, they don’t need to go unaddressed. Get a good night’s sleep, put an end to aches and pains, and get the professional services you need to stay happy and healthy. Your golden years will be much brighter as a result!
