AGING CONDITIONS
Whilst we all age in different ways and at different
rates, according to the choices we make in our earlier
years, there are certain conditions which are commonly
associated with aging.
The Census Bureau estimates that 7,918 will turn 60
each day in 2006 — the equivalent of 330 every
hour. By 2025 it is estimated over one billion people
worldwide will be over the age of 65, many of whom will
be affected by age-related diseases.
As we get older, it is not just our bodies that don’t
work as well. Almost half of older adults have high
blood pressure and more than a third have arthritis
and heart disease.
Mental health is equally as important. Surveys suggest
elderly people find it harder to maintain a positive
outlook on life and it’s estimated 10-15% of people
over 65 suffer from depression.
These include:
Managing Age Related Conditions
Many age related conditions can be prevented with
correct
diet and exercise.
Many older people do not realise that their nutritional
requirements change with age, and that the bodies
ability to absorb some nutrients decreases.
For example, nutrients needed in greater amounts include
vitamin
B-12, vitamin
D and vitamin
B-6. As we age, the food form of vitamin
B-12 is less well-absorbed than the synthetic form.
A multivitamin
containing at least 2.4 micrograms is recommended for
adults older than 60.
Many conditions can be affected by the foods we eat
and the amount of weight we carry. Losing as little
as 10 pounds can decrease blood
pressure, help relieve symptoms of knee arthritis
and lower cholesterol.
The common saying "Use it or lose it” holds
true. We need to use our muscles, bones, brain, heart
and gut to keep healthy.
NEXT: Alzheimers Disease
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