3 Common Health Concerns of Seniors and How to Combat Them 

Getting older brings about many changes to your appearance, energy levels, and most prominently your health. Despite our sometimes ageist society, it is well-accepted that Americans are living longer than ever before, which is why it’s so important that your senior years are as fruitful, prosperous, and pain-free as possible.

You know the basics – that not smoking and maintaining a healthy weight can minimize your risks of serious illness, but what about the everyday ailments that stop you feeling your best? Here are the three of the most common health concerns for over 60s and how to combat them. But what about other health concerns of seniors?

Thread Veins

Thread veins are those tiny prominent veins that form a spider web pattern just below the skin’s surface. Although they are typically considered a cosmetic complaint, thread veins on the legs can cause unpleasant symptoms such as burning and itching. Thread veins on the face are also common in over 60s, and many seniors feel self-conscious when they start to appear.

If you discover thread veins on your legs, face, or elsewhere on your body, know they are normal signs of aging and that there is no reason to worry. If you’re bothered by their appearance, you can make appointments with a thread vein clinic online. Treatment options include Thermocoagulation, a non-invasive microwave technology, and Injection Compression Sclerotherapy, a process where thread veins are injected with a saline solution that destroys them over several weeks.

Arthritis

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), arthritis affects 49.7 percent of all adults over 65, making it one of the most common conditions in seniors. Once arthritis develops, it can lead to severe pain and affect your quality of life, so talk to your doctor if you experience any of the early symptoms, especially if you’re female and the condition runs in your family.

Though there is no cure for arthritis, there are ways of managing your symptoms, so book an appointment with a specialist if you’re suffering from this condition. If arthritis is in your genes, know that there are things you can do to delay or even prevent its onset, including exercising often, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding sports injuries.

Osteoporosis

Another of the health concerns of seniors is osteoporosis. Losing bone density is a normal part of the aging process, but some people lose bone much faster than others due to osteoporosis. The condition affects around 54 million Americans over the age of 50, and it puts seniors at risk of becoming less mobile and being more susceptible to breaks and fractures.

Osteoporosis develops over many years, and it’s not normally diagnosed until a fall or sudden impact causes a bone fracture. Treatment for the condition will be assessed according to your age, sex, and the results of medical examination, but the process usually involves taking medications to strengthen bones and working to prevent fractures. In terms of prevention, taking a daily vitamin D supplement, reducing alcohol consumption, and taking regular exercise can all reduce your risk of developing the condition.