Men’s Health and Aging

As we celebrate Men’s Health Month and approach Father’s Day, we thought it would be the perfect time to discuss men’s health and aging. As men reach their 40s, 50s, and beyond, their bodies change and many start experiencing health issues for the first time. Men can often neglect their own health as they age so being aware of some of the top health concerns men face can help forge a path to a healthier life.

Top Health Concerns For Men Are:

Hypertension is a common health issue for men and women. However, it is more prevalent in Men (51% of men, 40% of women according to the CDC). Men have a higher rate of developing high blood pressure as they age.

Heart disease is also a concern. Men are twice as likely as women to experience a heart attack at some point in their lives.

Also worrisome is the fact that 41% of American men are obese, and 76% of men are either overweight or obese.

Men are more likely to die from cancer than women. Skin, lung, colorectal, mouth, throat, and esophagus cancers can often be prevented by diet, regular exercise, and not drinking alcohol excessively or using tobacco products.

The CDC also reports more than 37 million Americans have diabetes. 90% of those people are overweight or obese! 27% of adults 65+ have diabetes. In addition, men can also experience Prostate Cancer, Erectile Dysfunction (ED), and Low Testosterone

Take Action!

According to one recent study by the Cleveland Clinic, close to 60 percent of men don’t regularly see a doctor, going only when they are seriously ill. Taking care of your body isn’t easy, but it can help you live a longer and healthier life. Health experts recommend:

*Eating healthy– Eat more fruits and vegetables and less sugar and fat.

*Exercise– You can do this by just moving more. It doesn’t mean you need to train for a marathon. Participate in activities you enjoy. Many people have taken up pickleball as a fun and low-impact way to get moving.

*Quit Tobacco– Tobacco smoking is the number one preventable cause of death in the U.S. and the primary cause of COPD and lung cancer.

*Make prevention a priority – Schedule your yearly checkup and health screenings.

Your legal and financial “health” should also be addressed as you age. Hurley Elder Care Law can help with your estate plan as well as discuss your thoughts and wishes for your potential future care needs. Call us at 404-843-0121 for a complimentary consultation with our intake specialist.