According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, three chronic diseases — cancer, diabetes, and heart disease — are the leading causes of death and disability in the United States. They are responsible for more than $4.5 trillion in annual healthcare costs.
The good news is that most chronic conditions are manageable. For older individuals, this requires a unique plan and implementation.
This article explores the basics of chronic conditions management in seniors. Keep reading to find out how to optimize health and longevity, and improve your quality of life as well.
Chronic Conditions Defined
A chronic condition refers to a disease or ailment that lasts more than a few months, though it may not be incurable. It often requires ongoing medical attention and lifestyle adjustments. Chronic conditions can also significantly impact a person’s quality of life.
Common chronic health conditions include:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Arthritis
- Asthma
- Cancer
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Cystic fibrosis
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Lou Gehrig’s disease (ALS)
- Obesity
- Osteoporosis
Other conditions, such as alcohol or drug abuse disorders, are also considered chronic diseases. Ongoing dental issues, such as gum disease, might also fall under this categorization as well. Finally, many mental health disorders — such as anxiety and depression — are considered chronic conditions.
Chronic Conditions Management
Managing chronic disease is vital to health and longevity. Depending on the condition, it also can help avoid disability and a diminishment in quality of life.
Fortunately, there are many things that seniors can do for chronic conditions management. Here are the most impactful ones to consider and the different ways they can help.
Focus on Nutrition
One of the best things for improving or managing almost all chronic conditions is to lead a healthy lifestyle. Smoking, alcohol use, and poor nutrition can worsen most chronic disorders.
If you smoke or drink, consider stopping or cutting back. Seek professional assistance if you have difficulty doing so.
Eating a healthy diet also is a good way to manage chronic ailments. Avoid processed foods and products with added sugars, sodium, and trans fats. Instead, focus on regularly eating:
- Fresh fruits
- Fresh vegetables
- Legumes
- Nuts
- Lean protein
- Healthy fats
Consider natural foods that have vitamins and nutrients that can fight your particular ailment. Fish — like salmon, mackerel, herring, and sardines — have a lot of omega-3 fatty acids, which can reduce inflammation and promote joint health.
Some conditions also are triggered by certain foods. If you have food allergies, metabolic disorders, or gastrointestinal issues, changes in diet could greatly help in managing these.
Stay Active
Getting regular physical exercise is another thing you can do to manage chronic health conditions. There are several ways it can help.
Exercise can increase energy levels and help maintain a healthy weight, both of which can make you feel better. It can improve mental health and reduce stress and anxiety (in general or related to the condition). It can stimulate the release of endorphins, which can dull pain.
Perhaps most importantly, exercise can strengthen your immune system. This can make you better equipped to deal with the symptoms of the disorder.
Sports and recreation can be difficult for some older people, especially those impacted by chronic conditions. They may experience joint pain or have other limitations. However, almost anyone can perform exercises like walking, swimming, water aerobics, and yoga.
Finally, consider exercises that actually treat particular side effects of your condition. For instance, strength training can greatly improve insulin sensitivity in people with diabetes. Yoga can improve flexibility and strengthen muscles for people who experience chronic back pain.
Regular Check-Ups
One of the most important things someone can do to stay on top of the threat of chronic conditions is to see healthcare providers on a regular basis.
Technology and research are changing faster now than ever before in human history. New medications and therapies are developed every day. Ensuring you are receiving the latest and most effective treatment for your condition can go a long way toward minimizing its impacts.
Individuals and conditions change over time as well. Going to regular checkups gives your physician a chance to discuss treatments that are best suited to your health goals and lifestyle at that particular time. It is important to remain in regular communication with them and be honest about any challenges you face.
Adhere to Treatment Regimens
A related strategy for managing chronic conditions is to strictly adhere to the treatment plan you and your doctor decide on. Take medications as prescribed, which includes paying attention to time and dosage. Seek assistance if, for whatever reason, you or your loved one has difficulty remembering or understanding the prescription schedule or instructions.
The same is true for therapy. If your treatment plan involves physical, mental, or other types of therapies, do your best to adhere to the schedule.
Successful management of chronic conditions is often contingent on the cumulative effects of treatment. So, even missing a single session can produce negative outcomes. If you habitually have trouble making it to appointments, discuss this with your healthcare team.
Establish Social Connections
A support network is almost as important as the treatments you undergo in chronic disease management. Having a robust one can ensure both emotional support and help with adherence to treatment protocols.
Family and friends can fill this role, as well as support groups. These let you connect with individuals who are facing the same challenges as you. Support groups also can be a fantastic resource for sharing experiences and staying informed about current treatments.
Learn More About Senior Wellness Programs for Managing Chronic Conditions
Proper chronic conditions management is imperative for optimizing health and quality-of-life outcomes. With the right plan and execution, you can live your best life.
At Discovery Village at Deerwood, we pride ourselves on providing the highest level of senior living services in Jacksonville, Florida. We offer a range of benefits, including recreation, world-class dining, extensive programming, and aging health solutions tailored to each resident’s unique elderly health care needs. Contact us today to schedule a free tour or to discuss senior living health.
