Articles related to focusing on healthy aging, prevention, mobility, cognition, nutrition, independence, and caregiving support.
According to the CDC, routine check-ups and screenings are crucial for maintaining health and preventing disease as we age. Understanding **what tests should be done for senior citizens** can empower you to stay on top of your or a loved one's wellness.
For many years, screening for colorectal cancer with a colonoscopy has been a standard part of preventive care, but recommendations change with age. For an average-risk woman, the decision of how often should a 78 year old woman have a colonoscopy is not a straightforward 'yes or no' and depends on several critical factors.
For many seniors, the prospect of a colonoscopy can be daunting, but the good news is that there are many safe and effective alternatives available. In fact, guidelines from organizations like the American Cancer Society emphasize that the best test is the one you will actually take, ensuring regular screening for colorectal cancer.
As of 2022, there were 57.8 million adults aged 65 and older in the U.S., a population segment that requires proactive medical care. This growing demographic's health hinges on reliable and consistent access to healthcare, which is why access to healthcare is important for the elderly.
As the global population ages, prioritizing health promotion in elderly care is more critical than ever. Research shows that investing in preventive health is more cost-effective than managing diseases after they occur. This makes finding the most effective health promotion strategy in elderly care a key priority for healthcare professionals and caregivers alike.
While many assume the age of 65 is the definitive cutoff, the reality is more nuanced. The question of **at what age do you become a geriatric patient?** depends less on your birth year and more on your overall health and complexity of medical needs.
According to the National Council on Aging, about 80% of adults aged 65 and older live with at least one chronic disease. As people age, physiological changes make them more susceptible to certain conditions. Understanding what are the common health problems of the elderly is the first step toward effective management and preventative care for a healthier, more independent life.
In 2025, new guidelines from the American Heart Association (AHA) and American College of Cardiology (ACC) re-emphasize high blood pressure as a leading modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease. These updates address key considerations for older adults, aiming to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and dementia. The new blood pressure guidelines for seniors incorporate universal targets while individualizing treatment based on risk assessment.
According to the CDC, over 36 million falls are reported among older adults each year, resulting in costly injuries and hospitalizations. This underscores the critical need for effective fall prevention, and a key component is understanding what is the role of the nurse in the fall risk assessment.
While medical advancements have improved outcomes, hip fractures in the elderly remain a significant health concern, with an estimated one-year mortality rate of up to 33%. Understanding the complex interplay of acute and long-term factors that contribute to increased mortality after a hip fracture is crucial for improving care and prevention strategies.
