Baby Boomers Can Maximize Health for Quality of Life
5/25/2022
As baby boomers age, people over 65 are becoming the largest population segment in the U.S. and will be living longer than previous generations. But with longer lifespans, they will also experience higher rates of chronic conditions that can impact their overall quality of life.
Crystal Jencks, M.D., a primary care physician with Lutheran Health Network, wants to remind local baby boomers that while some factors like genetics are beyond their control, healthy lifestyle choices and timely identification and management of the following common chronic conditions with the help of a doctor can increase chances for a long, healthy life.
“Aging is a normal process in all our lives,” Jencks said. “Making good lifestyle choices and managing chronic conditions will give baby boomers the best chance to stay healthy with high levels of independence as they age.”
Arthritis
Joint pain, stiffness and swelling in or around one or more joints can be signs of arthritis, which is the leading cause of disability in the U.S. with nearly one in four adults developing the condition. Arthritis has many forms, and your doctor can help diagnose it, identify the best treatment, and manage the disease to help reduce or control pain, minimize joint damage and improve or maintain function.
Type 2 Diabetes
According to the CDC, more than 37 million Americans – or one in ten – have diabetes. And about 90-95 percent of those have Type 2 diabetes, which becomes a more common condition as people age. If left untreated, Type 2 diabetes can cause other serious conditions like heart or kidney disease or vision loss. Regular check-ups can help identify diabetes in a timely manner.
High Blood Pressure (or hypertension)
When high blood pressure is left unchecked, the condition can increase the chance for heart attacks, heart failure and strokes. Your doctor can help you develop a plan to lower your blood pressure through changes to eating habits, increasing exercise and/or incorporating medication. A normal blood pressure is 120/80 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) or lower. Stage 1 hypertension is a systolic pressure ranging from 130-139 mm Hg or a diastolic pressure ranging from 80-89 mm Hg. Stage 2 hypertension is a systolic pressure of 140 mm Hg or higher or a diastolic pressure of 90 mm Hg or higher.
Heart Disease
Several types of conditions are considered heart disease, including coronary artery disease, issues with valves in the heart and heart failure. Each of these elevates the risk for heart attack and stroke, though symptoms vary depending on the type of heart disease. A primary care physician can perform diagnostic tests and may advise you to make lifestyle changes or may prescribe medication for treatment if diagnosed.
“My goal is to help my patients maintain their best life through preventive care if possible,” said Jencks. “When health conditions or issues arise, I can help them identify the most promising course of treatment and connect them with specialists if needed.”
To find a primary care physician near you for help with chronic conditions and to learn more about healthy lifestyle choices, visit LutheranHealthPhysicians.com/Doctors-Providers or call (833) 546-4968.
Lutheran Health Network also offers a free e-newsletter with a monthly dose of health and wellness inspiration sent directly to your inbox from a trusted medical source. Visit LutheranHealth.net to sign up.
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