Chronic health conditions
Chronic diseases and health conditions like heart disease, obesity, cancer, diabetes affect seniors at a disproportionate rate compared to the rest of the population. Over 90 percent of seniors have one chronic health condition, and close to 80 percent have at least two according to the National Council on Aging. Around two-thirds of all deaths is the result of a chronic health condition each year.
Obesity is the primary cause of many chronic health conditions older adults experience. Seniors must make lifestyle changes to reduce their chance of becoming obese. The National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion recommends that seniors have an annual checkup with their physician. They also recommend making lifestyle changes such as having a healthy diet and exercising regularly to reduce the chance of becoming obese and developing chronic health conditions.
