8 Helpful Tips That Will Actually Manage Chronic Illnesses In The Elderly
At Family Medical Center, we’re committed to supporting patients’ health from the very first of their days until their very last.
As we age, our bodies naturally change, and our chances of chronic illness tend to increase. Nearly
95% of older adults suffer from at least one chronic illness, and around 80% have two or more conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis.
Staying on top of these chronic conditions is the key to healthy aging and promoting independence in seniors. Primary healthcare providers play a critical role in helping manage chronic illnesses in older adults and promote a strong quality of life for elderly patients.
Over the years, our team at FMC has helped many Michigan seniors lead healthier lives through chronic disease management. In this post, we want to share our knowledge with seniors to assist them in managing chronic conditions and generally protecting their health.
Let’s dive in.
The Most Prevalent Chronic Illnesses in the Elderly
A chronic condition is an illness or medical condition that lasts longer than three months and is not necessarily something acute. Aging often brings changes to your body, such as loss of bone density, decreased muscle mass, slower metabolism, and weakened immunity, which can lead to different types of chronic conditions.
Some of the most common chronic illnesses in seniors include:
- Diabetes:
A condition in which your body struggles to regulate blood sugar, requiring careful monitoring and management.
Diabetes affects one in three Americans who are 65 and older.
- Hypertension (high blood pressure): Known as the silent killer and impacts
63.1% of those aged 60 and over. It can lead to serious heart and kidney problems if untreated.
- Cardiovascular disease (heart disease): Can range from coronary artery disease to heart failure. These chronic conditions are widespread in older adults and need attentive care by healthcare providers.
- Arthritis: Targets your joints, leading to acute pain and restricted mobility. It can affect your daily routine and requires proactive care and pain management with the help of experts.
- COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease): A lung condition that makes breathing difficult and impacts your physical stamina and quality of life.
It doesn’t matter if you have multiple chronic conditions or just one; if you’re dealing with an illness later in life, you need to have a management plan in place.
How to Manage Chronic Diseases in Older Adults
Managing chronic conditions goes beyond medication and often involves lifestyle adjustments, prioritizing mental health, and building a reliable support network.
As we mentioned, our team at Family Medical Center often helps patients develop well-rounded approaches to monitoring and managing their conditions. There’s a lot we could talk about, but in this blog post, we’ve narrowed our advice down to eight essential tips to help you manage chronic illnesses effectively.
Tip #1: Schedule Regular Check-Ups
This is one of the most critical (yet underrated) tactics.
Regular health check-ups are at the heart of monitoring your chronic illnesses and staying on top of your health, both on detailed and big-picture levels.
During your regular checkup, you can expect:
- A complete physical exam
- Thorough assessment of your cognitive ability
- Preventive care such as vaccinations
- Diagnostic tests and screenings
- Personalized chronic illness management plan
Typically, older adults require regular blood pressure checks, glucose monitoring, and cholesterol tests for
attentive care. These tests help your healthcare provider understand how fast your condition is progressing and modify your treatment plan accordingly.
Tip #2: Follow Your Medication Routines Diligently
Many chronic illnesses, such as hypertension, arthritis, and diabetes, require lifelong medication. You’ll need to stick to the prescribed medication routine to manage your condition effectively.
Missing a dose or taking more/less medication might worsen your condition. Pill organizers are a simple, cost-effective way to avoid these mistakes. Additionally, you can set phone alarms as medication reminders to avoid missing a dose.
While taking your medication on time is necessary, watch out for potential side effects. If any of it leads to side effects, speak with your healthcare provider immediately. They might be able to recommend a better alternative.
Tip #3: Maintain a Balanced and Nutritious Diet
A balanced and nutritious diet goes a long way in managing your chronic conditions. For example, a low-sodium diet can help manage hypertension, while carbohydrates are recommended for those suffering from diabetes.
Depending on your chronic condition, you may have to stick to a specific diet. However, a typical healthy diet plan includes:
- Lean proteins such as lentils, white-fleshed fish, eggs, and chicken
- Healthy carbs in the form of whole grains
- Fresh fruits, vegetables, and leafy greens
Avoid processed or microwave meals as they often contain high amounts of sodium and other harmful chemicals. Instead, plan your meals to ensure you are eating nutritious and freshly cooked food.
Staying hydrated is equally important. Although water intake may vary depending on your health and age, seniors are recommended to drink one-third or one-half of their body weight in ounces per day. That means if your body weight is 150 pounds, you should drink 50–75 ounces of water daily.
Tip #4: Stay Physically Active but Within Safe Limits
Maintaining a nutritious and balanced diet alone isn’t enough to manage your chronic illness. You also need regular exercise, but within safe limits.
Most seniors can benefit from low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or stretching. Safe and easy, this daily shot of physical activity can improve mobility and cardiovascular health and reduce stress.
Of course, consult your healthcare provider before starting a new exercise regimen. They can recommend activities that aren’t too stressful for your age and health. Remember, the goal here is to stay active and healthy, not push your physical limits.
Tip #5: Manage Stress and Prioritize Mental Health
Living with chronic conditions can take a toll on anyone’s mental health and might lead to stress, anxiety, and even depression. In other words, you must prioritize your mental health alongside the management of any chronic conditions.
For most seniors, relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or engaging in enjoyable hobbies are excellent ways to manage stress. Additionally, talking to a counselor or joining support groups can provide you with an emotional outlet.
Stress management is a critical aspect of aging well, with or without chronic illness. Find out what works for you and stick to that routine to stay happy and positive in your golden years.
Tip #6: Monitor Your Symptoms and Track Health Changes
Keep a health journal or use an app such as FollowMyHealth to track symptoms, side effects, and health changes. This helps you play a more active role in your health management.
Additionally, the information you record can be invaluable during medical visits, helping healthcare professionals provide you with more personalized care. That, in turn, will help you better manage your chronic illness and age with independence.
Tip #7: Stay Informed About Treatment Options
The healthcare industry is evolving rapidly, and staying informed about new treatment options can help you manage your chronic illness more effectively.
You and your caregiver should speak with your healthcare providers about the emerging treatments that might improve your quality of life. Being open will help you live a more active and healthy life in your golden years.
Tip #8: Build a Strong Support Network
Our final tip: remember that you are never alone, regardless of your chronic illness type or severity.
Building a strong support network is a crucial element of managing chronic diseases in the elderly. Involving family and friends can provide emotional support and practical assistance with daily tasks, appointments, and medication management.
Also, consider joining support groups—whether in-person or online. These offer a valuable space to share experiences and connect with others facing similar challenges. Engaging in community activities can also reduce feelings of isolation and promote mental well-being.
You may also want to take advantage of professional services, such as social workers and counselors. These professionals can help navigate the complexities of chronic illness management, while technology can keep loved ones connected.
A robust support network doesn’t just enhance emotional resilience 一 it also contributes to a more fulfilling and healthier life for seniors of varying health.
Where Does Primary Care Fit Into This?
Managing chronic illnesses requires consistent long-term care. That’s where primary care providers like FMC come in.
With a team of dedicated healthcare providers, we can offer consistent care, monitor your progress, and update your treatment plan. This ongoing support allows you to age with confidence.
As primary care providers, we also focus on preventive care, ensuring you receive the screenings, treatments, and healthcare resources you need to maintain long-term wellness.
Dr. Barnett and Nurse Practitioner KC Bellin have worked with many Michigan seniors. If you have questions, are concerned, or simply want to schedule a regular checkup, we’re here to help.
Looking to Manage Your Chronic Illness Holistically?
At FMC, we favor a holistic approach that combines medical care, lifestyle changes, and emotional support to maintain a healthy, active life. Our team will help you and your caregivers develop a personalized management plan that meets your needs and accounts for any chronic diseases you may have.
Whether you are worried about cardiovascular disease or risk factors like high blood pressure, we’re here to support you.
If you are interested in holistic chronic disease management or simply want to learn more about aging safely in the Lake Odessa area,
schedule an appointment today!
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FAMILY MEDICAL CENTER1020 4th AveLake Odessa, MI 48849
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