Signs of a Long Life : A list of the most common diagnoses among our oldest demographic

The more birthdays we accumulate, the more changes occur in our bodies, and that can sometimes that can feel overwhelming, disempowering, and confusing.

The good news is that many of the health conditions associated with aging are both common and manageable. No one is alone! And with the right information and support, seniors and families alike can better navigate these changes. Supplemented with links to some of our nation’s top research agencies, this guide outlines some of the most common diagnoses seen in older adults in the United States; with the hopes to empower individuals with the knowledge they need to make the best decisions for themselves and their loved ones.

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Hypertension (AKA High blood pressure)

According to a study done by Pradip K. Muhuri, PhD, in 2019, high blood pressure was the most commonly treated condition among older adults, with just over 56% percent of the population (31 million older adults) receiving treatment.

• Why it’s common:
  
  • As our bodies age, blood vessels grow stiff, making hypertension extremely prevalent in older adults.
• Why it matters in care:
  
  • Often has no visible symptoms
  • Increases risk of stroke, heart attack, and kidney disease
  • Medication adherence and routine monitoring are critical

For more information, visit the American Heart Association at https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure

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Arthritis (Especially Osteoarthritis):

“As the nation’s #1 cause of disability, arthritis affects nearly 60 million adults and 300,000 children. Over 100 types of arthritis and related conditions damage the joints and often other organs.” American Arthritis Foundation

• Why it’s common:
  
  • Years of wear and tear on joints, especially knees, hips, hands, and spine.
• Why it matters in care:
  
  • Can significantly affect mobility and independence
  • Pain may limit participation in daily activities

Check out this link for the latest research: https://www.americanarthritisfoundation.org/resources/b/What-Every-Adult-Over-50-Should-Know

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Heart Disease (AKA a broad category including coronary artery disease, heart failure, and arrhythmias, etc.)

According to a study posted by the CDC, 42.6% of adults age 60 and older presented at least one risk factor for Cardiovascular Disease (CVD).

• Why it’s common:
  
  • Often develops over decades, especially alongside hypertension or diabetes (common risk factors!)
• Why it matters in care:
  
  • Leading cause of hospitalization and mortality in seniors
  • Can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, swelling, and weakness

For more information, check out the American Heart Association: https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/consumer-healthcare/what-is-cardiovascular-disease

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Diabetes Mellitus (AKA Type 2)

According to the American Diabetic Association, over 133 million Americans are living with diabetes or prediabetes, while the CDC estimates that 90-95% of cases are type 2, with the majority being adults age 45 years or older.  

• Why it’s common:
  
  • Insulin resistance increases with age, weight changes, and inactivity.
• Why it matters in care:
  
  • Affects wound healing, vision, nerves, and kidneys
  • Increases infection risk

You can find more information and resources about managing Diabetes Mellitus at https://diabetes.org/

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Chronic Respiratory Disease (AKA COPD, Asthma, Bronchiectasis, Pulmonary Hypertension, Occupational Lung Diseases, Cystic Fibrosis)

The American Lung Association states 16 million people in America are diagnosed with COPD,  however they estimate millions more are living with COPD without a formal diagnosis. People aged 40 or older, current or former smokers have a higher risk of developing the disease, however 1 in 4 people who develop COPD never smoked.

• Why it’s common
  
  • Often linked to past smoking or environmental exposure.
• Why it matters in care:
  
  • Can cause shortness of breath and fatigue
  • Increases risk during respiratory infections

For early detection signs and symptoms visit https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/copd/symptoms-diagnosis/early-warning-signs

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Cancer

According to data gathered by the American Cancer Society, 1 in 3 men and women will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime.

• Why it’s common:
  
  • Cancer risk increases with cumulative genetic damage over time.
• Why it matters in care:
  
  • Many seniors live long-term with cancer as a chronic condition
  • Treatments can affect energy, appetite, and immunity

To learn more about different types of cancer, support available, and survivor success stories visit https://www.cancer.org/

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Dementia (Including Alzheimer’s Disease)

While Dementia is an umbrella term describing all cognitive degenerative diseases, Alzheimer's disease makes up 60-80% of all dementia cases. The greatest known risk factor is increasing age, and the majority of people diagnosed with Alzheimer's are 65 and older, BUT it is not a ‘normal’ part of aging, according to the Alzheimer’s Association.

• Why it’s common:
  
  • Risk increases significantly with age, especially after 75.
• Why it matters in care:
  
  • Affects safety, communication, and independence
  • Often coexists with other chronic illnesses

For information regarding early warning signs check out https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/10_signs

Or check out our blog post, detailing more information!  

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• Wrinkles from a lifetime of smiling and laughing
• Memories with loved ones
• Priceless wisdom from a lifetime of experience
• White and silver hair that shines in the sun
• Unmatched resilience
• Unique perspectives on global, national, and technological change

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‍Aging is not something to resist, resent,  nor fear, but instead is a great privilege that comes with many challenges. Here at Nurturing Hearts, it is our honor to support you to the best of our ability during this chapter of your journey!

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