What are Chronic Diseases and why are Elders at Risk
August 31, 2016
Elder Care in Belmont CA
Chronic health conditions are common among elderly adults, affecting more than 70 million adults over the age of 50. Anyone who has an elderly parent, family member, or spouse has probably heard the term “chronic diseases,” but may not fully understand what it means. According to AARP, it is defined as “ongoing, generally incurable illnesses or conditions that require ongoing medical attention.”
Someone with a chronic illness may lose the ability to accomplish even the simplest task and may need additional help from a home care provider. These health conditions can take a toll on the physical and mental health of the elder, but knowing more about this term can help you understand what an elderly loved one with a chronic disease is going through.
Risk Factors
The biggest cause of chronic health conditions continues to be age. A little less than half of adults between the ages of 50 and 64 have at least one chronic condition, while nine out of 10 adults over the age of 75 are affected by it.
Although age is a big factor in developing this condition, it is not the only one. Other risk factors include:
- Low income
- Being of African American or Hispanic descent
- Alcoholism or tobacco use
- Unhealthy diet
- Being overweight or obese
- Lack of exercise
- The need for assistance with basic activities, like bathing, feeding, and toileting
- Being unable to stand for long periods of time and finding it difficult to walk
- An increased need for an elder care provider
- An increased possibility of being hospitalized
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Mental problems
- Dementia
- Stroke
- Cancer