Today's guest Blogger is Lizzie Weakley.  Lizzy is a freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. She went to college at The Ohio State University where she studied communications. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors and long walks in the park with her 3-year-old husky Snowball.  Twitter: @LizzieWeakley.  Her article shares some ailments that private-duty homecare caregivers may come across with their clients.

Many seniors face health challenges in the form of conditions and diseases. Several of these diseases can be prevented when steps are taken early or can easily be managed with the proper care. Take the steps now to stave off these diseases and enjoy good health in the senior years.

Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's is a form of dementia that causes memory loss, problems with carrying out a conversation and the decline in the ability to care for oneself. The disease may be able to be slowed down or prevented by taking steps to keep the brain healthy. Just like the other muscles in the body, the brain must be exercised. Reading, crossword puzzles and word problems help strengthen the brain. Additionally, eating a diet high omega-3 fatty acids can help boost brain function, keeping it healthy.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis causes bones to lose their mass, making them brittle and fragile. Seniors with osteoporosis are more susceptible to broken bones and serious injuries during falls. Health professionals, such as those with an online gerontology degree, work to find solutions to elderly diseases, such as osteoporosis. Eating a diet rich in calcium and doing weight-bearing exercises can strengthen bones and prevent bone loss from occurring.

Heart Disease

Heart disease affects the heart and blood vessels and can stop the organs of the body from receiving vital oxygen and nutrients via the blood. Taking care of the heart with a healthy diet and regular exercise can help prevent heart disease from occurring. Smoking causes the blood vessels to narrow and puts individuals more at risk of heart disease. Stop smoking now to help prevent heart problems in the future.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration

One of the leading cases of blindness in seniors, age-related macular degeneration causes blindness in the center part of the eye in the macula. Eating a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables and omega-3 fatty acids can help prevent the disease from occurring. Sunglasses that block ultraviolet and HEV light should always be worn outdoors in order to protect the delicate vessels in the eye.

Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body no longer is able to use the insulin that is being produced, causing excess glucose to remain in the blood. Left untreated, diabetes can lead to kidney problems, blindness and nerve problems. Maintaining a healthy weight and eating a diet low in refined carbohydrates can prevent the body from becoming insulin resistant, a precursor to diabetes.

The senior years should be spent enjoying the freedom of retirement, rather than the stresses of poor health. Take steps today to prevent these diseases from occurring and enjoy the senior years in good health.

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