Some diseases affect women’s health at a higher percentage than men.
Even if you have a chronic medical condition you can still make lifestyle changes that will improve your health. You may have had some unhealthy habits in your younger life but it’s never too late to begin activities that will enhance your health and well-being now.
Some diseases associated with older age are caused by lifestyle choices (this can include smoking, lack of exercise, chronic stress and obesity). Please also keep in mind that your family history of a medical disorder can also play a significant role in what diseases you may be susceptible to.
Typically women in their 60s will be concerned with these leading health issues:
Heart disease
According to Medicaremadeclear.com, “Heart disease is the leading cause of death among women in the U.S. Every year, it kills more women year than cancer, lung disease, Alzheimer’s disease and accidents, combined. Women are also more likely to die within a year of having a heart attack than men are.”
Always consult your health care provider, but keep in mind if heart disease runs in your family watch your blood pressure and cholesterol. High blood pressure and cholesterol can lead to heart attacks and strokes, so having these checked regularly. Maintain a healthy (low sodium) diet and refrain from smoking.
Arthritis
According to the Arthritis Foundation, 60% of all people who have arthritis are female. Arthritis is the inflammation of one or more joints and affects the surrounding tissues and other connective tissue areas.
Obesity and smoking are also contributing risk factors in the onset of arthritis. As you focus on your health care routine avoid smoking and watch your weight to help prevent arthritis.
Osteoporosis
The National Osteoporosis Foundation reports that of the 10 million Americans with osteoporosis, 8 million (or 80%) are women and about half of all women over age 50 will break a bone because of osteoporosis.
As a part of aging our bodies lose bone mass every year. So it makes sense that by your 60s this rate may or may not have started to slow. Women are more at risk for osteoporosis than men due to biology, hormones and genetics. How can you work to prevent this disease? Calcium, exercise, vitamins and medications can help strengthen your bones at any age.
Cancer
As you age your risk for certain cancers increases. For women these include endometrial, ovarian, colon, breast and lung cancer. Some cancers have little or no early signs. Start talking with your health care professional as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment are necessary to maintaining a healthy you. Take regular pelvic and breast exams (including mammography). Does Medicare coverage take care of preventative services?
Take a look here to learn more about screenings and preventative care covered under Medicare.
