Staying Healthy over 55

As we age small things can become big things and prevention takes on an even larger importance. Prevention is a larger importance and early treatment keeps a potentially bad situation from getting worse as well as reducing worry when it’s something that isn’t as bad as it seems.

One thing that is common in youth but even more as we get older is unexplained bruising. It’s even more common in women but we bump our arm or leg and think so little of it that we simply go on. A day or two later a bruise appears. Bruises form from damage to the small blood vessels in the skin and can be more noticeable as our skin gets thinner.

While this is in many ways normal it can also be caused by some supplements, medications and even an aspirin regiment which thins the blood.  If the bruises are unusually large or painful or if you’ve recently started a new medication it warrants discussion with your doctor. Additionally attention is needed if bruising is coupled with nosebleeds, bleeding gums or intestinal bleeding. The bruising itself heals as the body absorbs the blood around the bruise.

Loss of smell and taste can be contributed to aging but may also be related to nasal or sinus problems, medications (including high blood pressure medications and chemotherapy), mouth sores, dental issues, head injuries, smoking and some diseases.

Low blood sodium, or hyponatremia, affects how the body metabolizes water. This can mimic other conditions and confirmed only with a blood test. Nausea, headache excessive water intake with less frequent urination can be signs something isn’t right.

Many seniors especially on some medications find dry mouth an issue. Drinking water may help but also sugar free hard candy, using a humidifier when sleeping and avoiding tobacco can help reduce dry mouth.

Often we feel fine but there are hidden issues underneath that can alter sleep patterns. Regular testing for high blood pressure and monitoring heart health is a good, and inexpensive, part of a health prevention program. Heart friendly foods make a difference and the adage of moderation can ring very true here. Oatmeal is said to be heart friendly but many don’t envision sitting down to a bowl of oatmeal every day. Toss a few handfuls in quick breads, brownies and even when browning ground meats.

Regular exercise helps, even if it’s just regular walks and being outside in the garden. Reduce stress and watch your weight. Your heart is an organ that works for life and making sure we take care of it can increase our health and decrease health issues.

Along with heart health know the signs of stroke. This is the third leading cause of death in the US and the leading cause of disability. Where many are aware of signs of a heart attack fewer are aware of a “brain attack” or interruption of circulation to the brain. Numbness or weakness in face, arms or legs especially on one side of the body is a key sign as well as dizziness, loss of vision in one eye or double vision, difficulty in speech or a sudden, severe headache. These symptoms may disappear quickly of may linger but once they appear treatment is needed to keep the blood flowing to the brain.

Stroke chances are increased with diabetes, high blood pressure, smoking, high cholesterol, family history and narrowing of arteries. Your “heart healthy” program of exercise, eating healthy, maintaining a healthy weight and controlling high blood pressure and diabetes also helps you avoid a stroke.

Circulation issues can increase as we age also. Depression can be caused by loss but can also be health related.

Osteoarthritis or joint issues are also an issue as we age. This may be due to old injuries or genetic, and results when the cartilage that protects bones wears unevenly, creating friction between the bones and stiffness, pain and sometimes swelling. Losing weight reduces the amount of stress on the joints, and there are exercises available to help with joint health and strengthen muscles. Severe cases that don’t respond to other methods may be candidates for joint replacement surgery.

Not to be confused with joint issues is osteoporosis, a disease that affects bone density which makes them more apt to break. This is more common in women and prevention includes a good level of vitamin D and calcium, an active lifestyle, maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding smoking and alcohol.

One opportunity for health education particularly in the avenue of free health screenings is Integris Third Age Life Center. There is a free membership which includes a monthly newsletter with information about senior health issues. Additionally thousands take advantage of free screenings for diabetes, hearing loss, eye diseases and other health issues.

Another health and wellness program is offered by Baptist Health that helps you with information to get healthy and stay healthy. This includes not only screenings for physical and mental health but also fitness centers, walking programs and a MallWalkers group which allows active people of all ages to walk in a climate controlled area without the extremes of heat and cold.

Additionally the Baptist Health programs include educational programs on health concerns such as arthritis, sleep disorders, cancer risks and other health related topics including support groups for those with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. If needed there is also hospice and home health programs.

While there are some things that are a natural part of aging we owe it to ourselves to take care of our health as long as possible. Often when we realize we “should have” done more at a younger age it’s still not too late. Improvement and health care is needed at any age!

Empower yourself! Learn more about your health, do everything you can to maintain your good health with attention to lifestyle, planning, prevention, early detection and if necessary support groups. We can do without many things but can’t do without our health. Whether you’re 55 or 75 taking care of your health not only makes for a better life but a longer one too.