Common Health Conditions in Geriatric Patients: Understanding Age-Related Diseases

One definition of a disease is the body not being “at ease.” In other words, a part of the body is experiencing discomfort or is not in good health. Though diseases can happen in patients of any age, some medical conditions are more common in senior citizens. The team at Tri-County Family Medicine Program in Canaseraga, Cohocton, Dansville, Nunda, Geneseo, and Wayland, NY, can help you understand and manage geriatric diseases.

Understanding Age-Related Diseases

The process of aging can cause the cells of the body to break down, change, or behave abnormally. The cellular damage can lead to various diseases, both physical and mental in nature. Poor diet and lack of regular exercise which is most common in older patients can also lead to medical conditions like diabetes or cardiovascular issues over time. The diseases that commonly develop in older patients are sometimes called geriatric syndromes.

Common Geriatric Health Conditions

Primary care providers and specialists who work with geriatric patients are well-versed in the most common health conditions that affect the senior community. Though the following diseases can develop in patients of any age, they are some of the most common conditions affecting geriatric patients over 65 that can be treated and managed by your Dansville, NY, doctor:

  • Diabetes
  • Heart and cardiovascular disease
  • Arthritis
  • Dementia
  • Certain types of cancers (like lung and prostate issues).
  • Immune system disorders

Advice for Managing Age-Related Diseases

Though you cannot stop the hands of time, there are ways to manage age-related diseases to slow the progression of symptoms. Consider this advice for staying healthy as you get older:

  • Take your medications as prescribed regularly.
  • Stay hydrated and drink more water than any other kinds of beverages.
  • Stay active and move around each day. Physical activity is very important for healthy aging according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
  • Minimize stress, as chronic stress can be associated with disease progression according to research published by Yale Medicine.
  • Maintain a social lifestyle to keep your mind and body alert.

See Your Doctor for Help with Geriatric Conditions

It is possible to manage age-related diseases by keeping up with a healthy regimen and following advice from your doctor. Schedule a checkup appointment with a provider at Tri-County Family Medicine Program in Canaseraga, Cohocton, Dansville, Nunda, Geneseo, and Wayland, NY, by calling today to learn more about how you can prevent or slow the progression of common geriatric health conditions.

Call today.