4 Common Health Diseases After 60

Dr.Navneet Gill, 3 mins read

Life after the 60s is very hard for many. This is the time when people usually retire and spend most of their time at home. This not only makes them socially isolated, but also makes them less motivated to stay active. Plus, the advancing age adds to all these situations, making you more vulnerable to chronic health conditions after 60. 

However, with self-motivation, an active lifestyle, healthy choices, and self-care, you can sail through these challenges and live a good quality of life. For that matter, you will also need to understand the common conditions that happen in this age and learn what things you can do to keep yourself healthy. So, without any further ado, let’s start.

Circulatory Problems

With ageing, our blood vessels become less flexible, which raises the risk of heart conditions and blood pressure problems. An inactive lifestyle and joint problems affect the circulatory system further. 

What can you do?

• Limit fried foods, processed snacks, and salt
• Eat heart-healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains
• Consider relaxation exercises and meditation
• Stay active. It doesn’t mean gymming and all. It means a simple brisk walk or moderate-level exercise for 30 minutes every day. Even walking your dog, gardening, or doing household chores can benefit you.
• Monitor your blood pressure regularly, especially if you have a history of high or low blood pressure.
• If you are taking any medicine, don’t stop them without a doctor’s advice.   

Diabetes

You may be aware of the fact that India is known as the diabetes capital of the world. Changing lifestyle and eating habits are the primary culprits for this rising curve. This problem becomes more common in older age.

As ageing slows down metabolism and the body hardly gets much movement throughout the day, getting diabetes becomes more likely after the age of 60. 

What can you do?

• Limit sugary drinks, sweets, and processed foods
• Eat fibre-rich foods like oats, beans, and vegetables
• Consider moderate exercise or brisk walking, especially after meals  
• Regularly monitor your blood sugar level
• Periodically follow up with your doctor

Memory Problems

Ageing is a part of life, but it also comes with its own challenges. One of such challenges is a decline in cognitive function and memory problems. Many people start forgetting things, even small ones like their keys or phone. If not taken care of properly, the problem can get worse with time and can even turn into dementia. 

What can you do?

• Play puzzles 
• Eat a healthy diet, including nuts or fish
• Start learning and reading every day
• Keep yourself socially engaged 
• Get enough sleep

Joint and Bone Problems 

Wear and tear of cartilage and bones is a common part of ageing. This makes you more susceptible to problems like weak bones, joint stiffness, knee pain, and arthritis. Though these problems are not directly life-threatening, they can steal independence and joy from you. 

Yes, if such problems are not taken care of properly and on time, they can restrict your movements and confine you to a wheelchair or bed. Furthermore, fewer movements mean other lifestyle disorders like diabetes, obesity, etc., which are risk factors for many serious conditions.

What can you do?

• Do brisk walking and exercise as much as you can, specifically strength training
• Include a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, like milk and leafy greens
• Get sunlight exposure 
• Take the support of a walker if you are susceptible to falling. Also, be more cautious on slippery surfaces. 
• Keep your weight in check. Extra weight pressure on joints can lead to joint problems.
• If your joint aches, apply warm compression. If that doesn’t help, consult a doctor for better management of the problem.