October is Health Literacy Month, and healthcare professionals are trying to raise awareness of common health issues—especially those that disproportionately affect particular groups of people such as, for instance, older adults. If you want to make your golden years the best years yet, you need to know what you might be up against. By learning about health issues people in your age group commonly face, you can be proactive in managing or even preventing them.

Arthritis

Arthritis can contribute to limited mobility, discouraging older people from staying active. In turn, being less active can contribute to weight gain which can then lead to diabetes, heart disease, and other health maladies. Over half of all seniors experience arthritis to some extent, but that doesn’t have to stop you from living an active life. You can work with your doctor to develop a health program that can help you manage any symptoms you may experience. Certain lifestyle changes and medication can treat stiffness and pain and even prevent further joint damage.

Diabetes

Almost a quarter of men and a fifth of women over the age of 65 are living with diabetes which can, when poorly managed, lead to even more serious health problems like blindness, amputations. However, it is possible to manage this disease. Blood sugar tests can indicate if you are at risk for diabetes so that you can begin treatment immediately to stay on the road to good health. If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, be proactive about managing your condition—speak with your doctor about how you can improve your quality of life with diet, exercise, and, if needed, medical treatment.

Heart Disease

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for people over the age of 65, but you may be able to reduce your risk by making a few simple lifestyle changes. Doing small things like losing a few pounds, eating more healthfully, and exercising can help improve cardiovascular health and make a big difference in your cholesterol and blood pressure. 

Depression

Depression is much more common among older adults than many would like to admit. Dealing with the deaths of siblings, spouses, and dear friends, the realities of life with a chronic disease, and the isolation of living alone can lead to clinical depression. But getting older does not mean that you will inevitably end up sad and lonely. Depression is treatable, and often, lifestyle changes, like getting active, making social time a priority, and eating properly, can make a big difference in one's mood and life outlook.

Obesity

Obesity can lead to myriad health problems, and about 40 percent of seniors between the ages of 65 and 74 years of age are overweight. Obesity can contribute to diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and mobility issues. Losing just a few pounds can do a lot to improve your health and lead a more active life.

Alzheimer's Disease

According to the Alzheimer's Foundation, about 5 million people over the age of 65 live with Alzheimer's. Many seniors fear this disease more than many other illnesses because it robs people of their memories and mental faculties—very essence of who they are. However, in the early stages, some drugs have proven effective in slowing the progress of this disease.

Flu and Pneumonia

Senior health care professionals say that flu and pneumonia are among the top seven health risks for people over the age of 65. As we age, our bodies become less efficient at fighting off diseases and recovering from illnesses like the flu. This is why getting a yearly flu shot can be so critical.

When you’re proactive about your health care, your golden years can be some of the most comfortable, active, and full of life days you experience.