We all grow older by the day. The ageing process is something that you simply cannot stop and it’s something that all of us are going to experience on a day to day basis – right from birth. Hopefully, you experience a smooth and problem-free ageing process, simply ripening and growing wiser with the years. But it’s still absolutely essential that you’re aware of different health conditions that may begin to affect different people as they age. Being aware of symptoms and warning signs can help you to get the help you need or to adjust to new ways of life before conditions fully take hold. This can make things much easier down the line – not only for you, but for your loved ones too! Here are just a couple of different conditions that can begin to impact people’s health and well being as they age!
Arthritis
Arthritis isn’t one, set condition. Instead, it’s an umbrella term that covers over one hundred different types of arthritis. Generally speaking, the most common forms of arthritis experienced by people as they grow older are called osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Generally speaking, these conditions will generally affect adults over sixty five years of age. However, it can impact younger individuals too. Arthritis essentially causes inflammation in joints around the body. This can then result in unpleasant symptoms such as stiffness, joint pain, and the swelling of the joints. Experiences of arthritis can be uncomfortable or painful on a daily basis. You may find that your range of motion begins to become reduced over time. Unfortunately, there isn’t an outright cure for arthritis. However, don’t fret. There are various different treatments and procedures available and constantly being developed and worked upon. They can help to reduce symptoms and flare ups. If you are worried that you may be developing symptoms of arthritis, it’s a good idea to visit a doctor, who will be able to formally diagnose any issues and can recommend treatment or pain relief.
Dementia
Dementia is something that some people will experience as they grow older. However, so many people ignore symptoms of dementia, trying to ignore what is happening to them and turning a blind eye to what may be going on. However, this isn’t all too useful for anyone. Dementia can’t be stopped and it’s extremely important that symptoms are acknowledged early on. This can allow for an earlier diagnosis, which can then allow your loved ones to prepare to cater to your needs as the condition progresses. It gives opportunity for a proper plan of action that can keep you as safe and comfortable as possible in the future.
Warning signs of dementia to look out for include:
- Memory loss – if you are experiencing difficulty in recalling names, events and other details, or you are finding difficulty in recognizing people who are significant in your life or who you spend a lot of time with, this could be a warning sign. Also keep an eye out for memory loss in terms of repeating conversations that you’ve already had or repeatedly asking questions that have already been answered.
- Concentration – finding difficulty in focusing on set tasks could be a sign of dementia.
- Organization – if you’re finding planning events or other day to day tasks and chores hard, this could also be a symptom.
- Communication – usually, we are able to easily communicate our thoughts, feelings, and ideas with others. Individuals with onset of dementia may struggle with this.
- Counting – not all of us are maths whizzes, but the majority of us can do basic math. If you find yourself experiencing problems counting change, relaying phone numbers that you would usually be able to repeat from memory, or other number-related issues, it may be a good idea to check in with a doctor.
- Changes in personality – if you are struggling with showing your standard levels of sensitivity, empathy, or compassion, this could also be an issue related to dementia.
If you are concerned that you may have symptoms of dementia, no matter how early onset it may feel, it’s always a good idea to visit a doctor who will be able to tell you more and diagnose any existing conditions or predispositions to the condition.
These are just two different conditions that affect various people as they grow older. While you may not experience either in your lifetime, it’s still a good idea to be aware of them. Knowledge will give you a headstart if you do experience either!
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