A Chronic Problem For Seniors
As we age, chronic conditions are more common.
According to the National Council on Aging, "approximately 80% of older adults have at least one chronic disease, and 68% have at least two. Four chronic diseases—heart disease, cancer, stroke, and diabetes—cause almost two-thirds of all deaths each year."
Living with a chronic disease is hard enough. Adding to the problems, physical pain, fatigue, emotional distress, and a sense of helplessness often accompany the condition and overwhelm seniors.
A Common Reaction
It is common for a senior to place their faith in a doctor to come up with an instant fix. This single solution to a complex problem doesn’t usually work since chronic conditions are ongoing, subject to relapse, and difficult to fix.
Healthy Habits
Frequent visits to the doctor and sticking with the care plan are primary actions to take to manage the problem.
Two other essential parts of a long-term care plan are acceptance and lifestyle changes. Acceptance occurs when one understands the condition is chronic and learns to act accordingly. Lifestyle changes are healthy practices needed to prevent further damage. Examples of lifestyle changes are a healthy diet, physical activity, brain exercises, and socialization.
A Healthy Habit occurs when one commits to the recommended lifestyle changes on a consistent basis.
In short, there are steps anyone can take to effectively live with a condition that can’t be fixed but can be managed.
A Tip For Seniors
Healthy Habits are essential to living a good life. For seniors struggling to complete day to day tasks, our compassionate care providers will help you. To get the help you deserve, fill out the contact form on the right side of this page.