Characteristics, early signs and prevention of age-related illnesses

Many people become more vulnerable to chronic conditions that develop as part of the aging process. They are often referred to as age-related illnesses and share several important characteristics:

• Complex and overlapping conditions that often occur together and require coordinated care such as diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. Similarly, depression in later life can increase the risk of cognitive decline.

• Chronic and long-term in nature. Most age-related illnesses develop slowly and persist over time. In many cases, they can be treated to reduce complications and manage symptoms.

• Impact on quality of life. As these conditions progress, they can significantly lower quality of life in older adults.

Degenerative neurological diseases include:

• Dementia:forgetfulness,difficultyrememberingdates,confusion, irritability, and changes in thinking or language.

• Parkinson’s disease: hand tremors, muscle stiffness, slowed movement, and changes in posture or walking.

Cardiovascular diseases:

• Hypertension and heart failure

Skeletal system diseases:

• Arthritis: joint pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion, especially noticeable in the morning.

• Osteoporosis. It is often silent in its early stages. Older women are especially at risk due to reduced estrogen after menopause.

Mental health conditions:

• Depression

Sensory organ diseases:

• Cataracts and glaucoma

• Hearing loss

Respiratory diseases:

• Chronic lung disease. Persistent cough, increased phlegm, shortness of breath and wheezing.

• Pneumonia. Fever, cough, chest pain and weakness.

While aging cannot be avoided, many age-related illnesses can be delayed or minimized through healthy habits such as:

• Adietrichinfreshvegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains, with limited salt and sugar intake; at least 30 minutes of sunlight exposure daily.

• Walking, cycling, swimming or water aerobics for at least 30 minutes a day.

• Annual health checkups and up-to-date vaccinations.

• No tobacco and reduced alcohol consumption.

• Stressmanagementthroughmeditation,hobbies,socialgatherings, or spiritual activities.

Healthy aging is not about avoiding age, but about living well at every stage of life. With awareness, prevention, and proactive care, it is possible to age with vitality, dignity, and a higher quality of life.

—Yeung H. Kwon, L.Ac, OMD, Ph.D, Optum HCC Leisure World Seal Beach