Health and the ageing process
Although many young people fear getting old, for most people the latter part of their life can be a time of great enjoyment, activity and usefulness. Many medical conditions associated with older age groups can be treated or alleviated, so see your doctor for advice. Adopting a healthy lifestyle and having regular check-ups can help maintain quality of life in later years.
Changes over time
In Western society, the over 65s are the most rapidly expanding age group. Ageing brings with it some inevitable restrictions, particularly in respect to physical fitness and mobility. In general this shows up as a gradual ‘slowing down’ process. Everyday tasks will take a little longer. Muscles and ligaments become less flexible and elastic. Reflexes tend to become slower, and coordination lessens. The heart muscle can't pump as strongly as before. Less food is needed to provide the energy required for living.
This ‘normal’ ageing process is often not the main reason for many of the things that happen to older people. Often there is a treatable medical cause for what is happening. ‘It's just my age, I have to expect this,’ should never be a reason for anyone to ignore things which interfere with their lives.
When to seek medical advice
It is important to seek medical advice if any of the following happen:
Difficulty in coping with everyday life
Although some of these problems cannot be cured, they can almost always be helped. If you, or an elderly relative, are blaming the things that are bothering you on old age, you might be wrong. Talk to your doctor.
Healthy ageing
It's never too late to adopt a healthy lifestyle, which can help to improve your quality of life as you age.
For example, try to:
Original material provided by myDr, 2009. Edited by everybody, January 2012.
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