chronic diseases

Recent studies show that older adults born more recently have a higher risk of chronic diseases. This increase is due in large part to the fact that they have been exposed to more health risk factors, including obesity, which is associated with higher risk for chronic diseases. In addition, medical advancements have improved surveillance of disease, which has helped identify chronic diseases and their risk factors. Future studies could look at why certain generations tend to have higher rates of multi morbidity than other generations.

Rise in exposure to key risk factors

In 2016, the rise in exposure to key risk factors for chronic diseases of older people increased by about 30%. The wilmacliving.com and other major contributors were physical conditions limiting physical function, smoking, and poor health status. The data covering the other risk factors, such as environmental pollutants, occupational risks, and metabolic risk, were not as good.

Prevention and management of chronic diseases

Chronic diseases are a growing threat to older people, but many people can do something to prevent them from developing. Early detection of chronic diseases and disease prevention strategies can prevent or significantly reduce their risk of developing these conditions. By understanding the causes and progression of these diseases, people can make proactive decisions to improve their quality of life.

Related: Taking Care of Older People in Our Communities

ICT interventions for supporting older adults with chronic diseases

Information and communication technologies (ICT) offer a great deal of potential for supporting older adults with chronic diseases. However, there is mixed evidence about the efficacy and benefits of such interventions. This study aims to map the use of ICT interventions in health care and identify any barriers to their effective implementation. To do so, a scoping review was conducted using five databases to identify articles of interest dating from January 2000 to July 2020.

Arthritis

The findings of this study suggest that arthritis poses an increasingly significant threat to the health of older adults. The population of older people suffering from arthritis is mostly female, working age, and obese. They are also more likely to report having severe joint pain, sleeping and activity limitations, and a negative perception of their health.

Stroke

While stroke is less lethal and disabling in older age, the disease is also more prevalent. The decrease in case fatalities could be attributable to changes in management practices. Nevertheless, the trend does not support the “compression of morbidity” hypothesis. Instead, it supports a delayed progression of the disease.

Heart disease

Although many older adults do not notice the symptoms of heart disease, there are ways to help prevent it. The first step is to get more physical activity. You can do this by participating in activities you enjoy. Aim for 150 minutes of exercise per week. It is also important to avoid sitting for long periods of time.

Diabetes

Diabetes is a condition in which the body’s blood sugar levels are too high to keep the body from functioning normally. If left unchecked, high blood sugar levels can cause serious damage to many parts of the body, including the eyes and feet. In some cases, these complications can happen suddenly, requiring immediate treatment. In other cases, these conditions may occur gradually and over time without warning.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a common, yet often overlooked chronic disease that can lead to broken bones. The condition makes bones weak and porous. It can cause painful bone fractures and deformity and can also result in disability. It is most common among women, but men can also develop it. Risk for osteoporosis is influenced by age, gender, family history, and certain medical conditions, including certain medications.