How Older Adults Can Manage Chronic Conditions and Maintain Good Health

Ageing increases the risk of developing chronic health conditions. Chronic conditions in older adults lead to functional decline, reduced mobility, and a decreased ability to carry out daily activities. This significantly impacts the health and quality of life of older adults.  

However, taking a holistic approach to health and using a few handy tips can help them stay active, engage in social activities, get enough rest, pursue hobbies, and engage in mental and cognitive stimulation.

Challenges of chronic conditions in older adults

Health conditions that last for a long period of time, usually over three months and require ongoing management and treatment are called chronic conditions. Chronic diseases are also very common among older adults.

Living with chronic conditions can be challenging, and seniors may experience a range of physical, emotional, and social challenges, all of which affect their quality of life. Some of these include:

1. Chronic conditions like arthritis cause chronic pain that may be difficult to manage. Arthritis also limits mobility, making it difficult for seniors to perform everyday tasks like walking, climbing stairs, or reaching for objects.
2. Some conditions cause fatigue and low energy levels, making it difficult to perform daily tasks.
3. Due to several reasons, it is natural for older adults to feel anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges due to their ongoing chronic condition.
4. Due to physical limitations or other reasons, chronic conditions may limit an individual's ability to participate in social activities, leading to social isolation and loneliness.

Chronic Conditions Common in Older Adults

Hypertension (High blood pressure)

• Hypertension is a condition in which the force applied by blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high.
• It can progress to cause heart disease, stroke, and other health problems.

Type 2 diabetes

• This condition affects the body's ability to produce or use insulin, resulting in high blood sugar levels.
• Diabetes can lead to complications such as nerve damage, kidney disease, and heart disease.

High cholesterol

• High cholesterol (hypercholesteremia) is a common condition among older adults having excess bad fats as it can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
• Seniors with a family history of hypercholesteremia, personal or family history of heart disease or stroke, obesity, or diabetes are at a higher risk of developing high cholesterol.

Arthritis

• This is an umbrella term for conditions that cause inflammation and stiffness in the joints, leading to pain and reduced mobility.
• Joint problems are widespread among the elderly worldwide. Arthritis affects around 350 million people globally and is a leading cause of disability.

Osteoporosis

• Osteoporosis is a common chronic condition that affects seniors and is characterised by the weakening of bone density.
• This condition is also associated with an increased risk for fractures.

Heart diseases

• A group of conditions that affect the heart are common in seniors, including coronary artery disease, heart failure, and arrhythmias.
• Heart disease is a leading cause of death in older adults.

Chronic kidney disease

• This is a condition in which the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood.
• Chronic kidney disease is prevalent among older adults and can lead to various complications, including anaemia and bone and heart disease.

While these are a few chronic conditions common among older adults, it is important to understand that a vast majority of older adults have multiple chronic conditions.

How can older adults effectively manage chronic conditions

It is important for older adults to effectively manage their chronic conditions to live happy, healthy, independent lives in their golden years.

Here are some effective ways of chronic disease management!

1. Managing medications

• Older adults must adhere to the prescription given by their doctor and adhere to the dosage and timing.
• Maintaining a medication list and reviewing it at each doctor visit is recommended. It is common for older adults to forget to take their medication or take an incorrect medication or dose.
• Using pill organisers can help them track their medication intake and avoid missing doses.

2. Regular exercise

• Regular exercises and physical activities like walking, swimming, cycling, etc., are vital for older adults as it helps them stay fit and healthy.
• You must try to get atleast 30 minutes of moderate exercise every day or a total of 150 minutes per week.
• Low-impact workouts like yoga and ta-chi are also recommended. It is important to consult their doctor to determine the best exercises and routines.
• Older adults with mobility issues can use assisted devices like walkers and canes if needed.

3. Healthy dietary habits

• Balanced Nutrition for older adults is important and can be achieved by including plenty of fruits, vegetables, proteins, and whole grains.
• This ensures they get all the essential nutrients like proteins, fibre, minerals and vitamins to assist healthy ageing.
• It is also important to avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive amounts of sodium, which can increase the risk of developing chronic diseases.

4. Stress reduction techniques

• Stress-busting techniques and practices like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing help older adults calm their minds and deal with the stress and anxiety in their lives.
• It may be a great idea to join a hobby class or participate in volunteering activities that can help keep their mind engaged.
• Joining a support group or seeking support from family and friends can also be effective in improving quality of life.

5. Regular check-ups and preventive care

• Older adults must schedule regular check-ups with the doctor, including preventive care such as screenings and vaccinations.
• It is vital to undergo regular health screenings like mammograms to enable early detection of diseases and prevent complications.
• Regular at-home or in-clinic monitoring of health parameters like blood pressure, blood sugar, and other vital signs is recommended.

Conclusion

Managing chronic conditions and maintaining good health are crucial for older adults to lead fulfilling lives. Our bodies tend to become more vulnerable to illnesses with age, but we can still maintain optimal health with the right approach.

Though a large majority of seniors struggle with one or more chronic conditions, there are several ways by which they can take control of their health, such as staying physically active, eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and managing stress.

At the same time, it is also important to remember that seeking support from healthcare professionals, family members, or support groups can be beneficial.