Discuss and give clear examples of two health-related problems that the aging population faces. You should write approximately 3-5 paragraphs.

Physical and Mental Health

Not really, but….. ◦ Higher likelihood of suffering from chronic diseases

and illness ◦ Lack of exercise or mobility can lead to weaker

muscles and bones

The degree to which a chronic health problem produces behavior changes in your ability to perform the necessary tasks for daily living. ◦ Eating ◦ Bathing ◦ Shopping ◦ Preparing meals ◦ Managing money ◦ Get outside ◦ Dressing ◦ Toileting

Nearly ½ million deaths a year Heart attack, cancer, and stroke all connected to smoking Associated with COPD – chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (emphysema and bronchitis) Has been a decline in smoking, across genders and races

Most important lifestyle influence on health after not smoking, especially as we age Regular exercise leads to ◦ stronger muscles and muscle control ◦ fewer backaches and joint problems ◦ more control over weight Regular mild exercise (walking 30 mins/day) more effective long term than occasional intense exercise

Informal and unpaid care provided to a dependent person ◦ By family members, other relatives or friends Most caregivers are women

Helps to hasten recovery from injury and illness Positive effect on physiological and mental health systems Emotional support related to reduced risk of mortality after serious injury or illness Elderly who are directly cared for by family members more likely to live longer

Women are more likely to live longer than men, but… ◦ Greater risk of disability ◦ Diminished quality of life as they age ◦ Higher rates of debilitating diseases than men

Men are at greater risk of cancer, heart disease, and stroke

◦ Women have higher rates of depression

African Americans, Hispanics, and Native Americans have poorer health than whites ◦ Likely also related to SES, lack of healthy food

access, and other factors that are connected to race and longevity

Alzheimer’s Disease Parkinson’s Disease Depression

All have mental and physical components. All are related to aging but not necessarily a condition of aging.