Medical Conditions Affecting Seniors
From Marian Anne Eure, former About.com Guide
Heart Disease
Heart disease can come in many different forms, and can affect everything from the heart muscle itself, to the heart’s electrical system, to the various arteries that help your blood circulate. Learn how to reduce your risk of heart disease and what to do if you are already diagnosed.
- Assess Your Risk of Heart Disease
- Symptoms of a Heart Attack
- How to Survive a Heart Attack
- Post-Heart Attack Checklist
- How Heart Disease is Different in Women
- All About Heart Failure
- High Cholesterol 101
- Heart Surgery Overview
Cancer
Cancer is a broad term that describes hundreds of malignant diseases that can develop in the body. Some of the most common cancers in seniors are explained below.
- Breast Cancer: The Most Common Cancer in Women
- The Basics of Prostate Cancer
- Prostate Cancer Progression
- What is “Watchful Waiting?”
Vision and Hearing Loss
Our eyes and ears are our windows to the world, and unfortunately as we age, their function may decline. Learn about the different types of vision problems and hearing loss that affect seniors, and what you can do about it.
- Your Eyes Through the Years
- What is Glaucoma?
- Macular Degeneration Overview
- How to Slow Cataract Development
- Lens Options for People Over 40
- Age-Related Hearing Loss
- Everything You Need to Know About Hearing Aids
Stroke and Alzheimer’s Disease
Someone is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease every 72 seconds, and most people with the condition are older than 65. Strokes are another condition that can affect the brain and lead to devastating consequences. Find out how to protect your brain from the ravages of Alzheimer’s or stroke.
- Stroke: The Basics
- Transient Ischemic Attacks, or “Mini Strokes”
- Carotid Doppler Test
- Is It Forgetfulness or Alzheimer’s?
- Alzheimer’s Warning Signs
- The 7 Stages of Alzheimer’s
- 6 Things to Know About Memory Screenings
- Reduce Your Risk of Alzheimer’s
Arthritis and Joint Conditions
The term “arthritis” means joint inflammation, and there are dozens of different conditions that can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in your joints. The two most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, and the incidence increases with age.
- Recognizing Arthritis Symptoms
- Diagnosis of Arthritis
- 10 Things to Know About Arthritis
- How Arthritis Affects Daily Activities
Other Conditions
There are several other medical conditions that can affect seniors. It’s important to learn the risk factors and treatment options, so that you can stay as healthy as possible.
