Aging affects every person differently, but some effects of aging are more prevalent in men over women. As such, senior men should be on the lookout for the following ten health problems in order to prevent and manage their health risks.
Liver Disease
Cirrhosis, hepatitis B, and alcoholic liver disease are all risks for senior men, especially those who drink alcohol or take certain medications.
Cardiovascular Disease
One in three men will experience a form of cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks, strokes, and hypertension.
Respiratory Disease
Men are at risk for lung cancer, particularly if they have been exposed to smoke, asbestos, and other hazards.
Alzheimer’s Disease
Memory-related diseases such as dementia and Alzheimer’s can impair a man’s decision-making ability and raise his health risks significantly.
Unintentional Injuries
Accidents that take place during work, physical labor, exercise, and other activities can be dangerous for senior men, especially those with health conditions that decrease bone strength.
Diabetes
Senior men are at risk for developing Type 2 diabetes. If left unmanaged, this condition can cause serious side effects such as heart problems and circulation issues that can, in some cases, require amputation.
Skin Cancer
Men older than 50 are at an increased risk of developing skin cancer. In fact, they are twice as likely as older women to contract the disease.
HIV/AIDS
Sexually active senior men should practice safe sex to avoid contracting HIV/AIDS.
Prostate Cancer
One of the most common cancers among men is prostate cancer. However, if it is caught early, prostate cancer is quite treatable.
Influenza/Pneumonia
Aging diminishes the immune system which makes all seniors more susceptible to contagious diseases such as pneumonia and the flu.
Screenings For Senior Men
In order to maintain good health, senior men should schedule regular health screenings as recommended by a medical professional. Keep the following list of recommended annual checkups and screenings in mind:
- Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
- Diabetes
- Cholesterol Levels
- Blood Pressure
- Fecal Occult Blood Test (Stool-Based)
- Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT)
- Lung Cancer Screening (For those who have smoked regularly within the last 15 years)
- Dental Exam
- Eye Exam
- Hearing Exam
In addition to these checkups and screenings, men should also have a colonoscopy performed every 10 years, as well as be screened for conditions they may be predisposed to due to their genetics or lifestyle.
Top Five Prevention Strategies For Men
To avoid diseases that could easily be prevented, senior men should implement the following strategies:
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle
- Keep up with annual physicals and health screenings
- Pay attention to any symptoms and
- Staying up-to-date with annual vaccinations
- Exercising the brain often
- Using sunscreen on a daily basis
Five Healthy Living Tips For Men
A healthy lifestyle for a senior man should include:
- Eating a diet rich in lean protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and whole grains
- Participating in regular physical activity
- Socializing with others frequently
- Staying up-to-date with annual vaccinations
- Exercising the brain often
- Using sunscreen on a daily basis
Home Care Tip
Even though men are less likely to report depression and anxiety, they can be equally affected by mental health conditions. Loved ones and caregivers should talk to senior men if they notice any signs or symptoms, as they can be harmful to their health!
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