Are you aging healthily?

As you age, your body changes – and the likelihood of developing a chronic condition like high blood pressure or arthritis increases.  

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates one in six people worldwide will be 60 years or older by 2030. And by age 65, 90% of American adults will have at least one chronic health condition, notes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 

“Aging unfortunately comes with increased health problems,” says Dr. Ariba Khan, a geriatrician at Aurora Health Care. “It’s not uncommon to develop multiple chronic conditions as you age. Having chronic disease increases your risk of poor health outcomes and becoming frail.” 

The most common chronic conditions in aging people include: 

• High blood pressure 
• High cholesterol 
• Arthritis 
• Obesity 
• Diabetes 
• Cancer 
• Heart disease 
• Depression 
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) 
• Asthma 
• Alzheimer’s disease  

What you can do 

“Prioritizing your health is paramount to aging in a healthy way,” says Dr. Khan. “Focusing on nutrition, exercise, sleep, stress management and social connection while avoiding drugs and alcohol can reduce your risk.” 

Try integrating these prevention measures now before you get older – and remember that it’s never too late to start: 

• Prioritize activity and exercise: Being regularly active helps improve your mobility and can decrease pain. It also helps you manage your weight, reduce stress and stabilize blood pressure and cholesterol levels. 
• Quit smoking and limit alcohol: Smoking and excessive drinking is known for increasing your risk of developing chronic health conditions.  
• Maintain a healthy weight: Keeping yourself at a healthy weight as you age eases stress on your joints and can help control blood pressure.
• Enjoy a healthy diet: Focus on whole foods, such as vegetables and fruits. 
• Reduce your stress: High stress levels can spike your blood pressure and put long-term strain on your heart. 
• Get restorative sleep: Quality rest can improve cognitive function, immune health and emotional well-being. 

“There’s a fair amount that’s out of your control when it comes to aging,” says Dr. Khan. “What you can control is your lifestyle. Living an active, healthy lifestyle is your best defense against future chronic conditions.” 

Are you trying to watch your weight? Take a free online quiz to learn your healthy weight range.