subject: Different Types of Illnesses For the Elderly [print this page] Different Types of Illnesses For the Elderly
Aging and death are a fact of life, so it is important to learn about the different types of illnesses for the elderly. This information can help people prepare themselves and loved ones for the possible ailments that affect the aged.
Cancer. Lifelong wear and tear on the body, as well as genetics, determines whether or not an elderly person will get cancer. Breast and lung cancer are the most common, and skin cancer is also a serious risk. Younger patients are much more likely to survive and fully recover from cancer when treated properly, but elderly people's bodies cannot handle the intensive treatments as well. As a result, the success rate for cancer treatment in elderly patients is low. Early detection is the key to beating cancer, especially in older patients.
Diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is usually caused by the aging person's lifestyle. A bad diet that is high in sugar and fat makes the body resistant to insulin which causes many life-threatening side effects. The disease is treatable and curable with diet and medication, but diabetes among the elderly has unique challenges that are harder to combat. Individualized therapy will minimize complications.
Dementia. Damage between the brain and nerve endings is a common problem among the elderly, and unfortunately there is no treatment for this progressive disease. Patients suffering from dementia lose their memory and become disoriented. It is hard for loved ones to handle, and patients become easily frustrated as they become more and more confused. Emotional support and behavioral interventions are the most effective way to manage this incurable disease.
Parkinson's disease. Like dementia, Parkinson's is a degenerative illness relating to the nervous system that cannot be cured. However, while dementia affects the mind, Parkinson's affects the body. Uncontrollable shaking of the limbs and impaired speech and motor skills are the symptoms that affect the sufferer. The average age of the onset of symptoms is sixty, making this an illness of the elderly.
As the human body enters the geriatric stage of life, it loses its natural ability to fight disease. This means that the elderly are more susceptible to the aforementioned ailments. Because aging is a natural and inevitable part of life, it is important to learn about the various illnesses for the elderly. Use the Internet to begin researching prevention and causes of these diseases to ensure early detection.
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