Chronic conditions are illnesses or impairments that cannot be cured; they have persistent or recurring health consequences lasting for years. Some of the most prevalent chronic conditions, such as arthritis and heart disease, can cause significant limitations in people’s ability to perform certain basic activities of daily living, or ADLs. In addition to medical services, people with chronic conditions may need personal, social, or
rehabilitative care over a prolonged period of time.
The Centers for Disease Control says that “a lot of the sickness, disability and even death associated with chronic disease can be avoided through preventive measures.” These measures include practicing a healthy lifestyle through healthy eating, regular exercise or physical activity, and avoiding tobacco use. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure; regular use of early detection and testing such as breast, prostate and cervical cancer screenings, diabetes and cholesterol screenings, bone density scans, etc., is essential.
According to the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists, the most common chronic diseases afflicting the elderly are: adult onset diabetes, arthritis, kidney and bladder problems, dementia, Parkinson’s disease, glaucoma, lung disease, cataracts, osteoporosis, enlarged prostate, Alzheimer’s disease, macular degeneration, depression, and cardiovascular disease.
If you are diagnosed with any of these or other illnesses, the best thing you can do is to educate yourself. Gather information about available resources to enhance your independence and quality of life. Many chronic health problems, although common and costly, can be managed. With proper treatment, symptoms and the overall quality of life can improve.
Build a good relationship with your health care provider. Go to all your medical appointments. Ask questions, raise concerns, and provide any information you think could help. Know what to expect and learn the warning signs that might indicate a serious problem. Take responsibility for your own care by following the plan that you and your and your health care provider have agreed upon.
Getting older does not always mean living with serious illnesses. You can manage your conditions and get the most out of life by making healthy lifestyle choices that can help you better manage your illness(es), avoid complications and live longer.
