Prevention of diseases in old age

Prevention of diseases in old age: an integrated approach to health and longevity

Aging is a natural process accompanied by physiological and functional changes. Although it is impossible to completely stop aging, preventive measures play a key role in maintaining health, improving the quality of life and extending active longevity. Prevention of diseases in old age is a multifaceted strategy that includes screening, vaccination, a healthy lifestyle, management of chronic diseases and psychological support. This comprehensive approach allows you to reduce the risk of developing the age of-compiled diseases, minimize their consequences and provide older people with the opportunity to live a full life.

I. Screening and early diagnosis: the key to successful treatment

Regular medical examinations and screening tests are necessary to detect diseases in the early stages, when treatment is most effective. Personalized screening plans are developed taking into account age, gender, family history and general health.

A. Cardiovascular diseases (CVD): warning of heart attacks and strokes

SSZ is the main cause of death among the elderly. SSZ prevention includes risk factors, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and smoking.

• Measurement of blood pressure: Regular measurement of blood pressure (blood pressure) is necessary to detect hypertension, which is often asymptomatic in the early stages. The target level of blood pressure is usually less than 140/90 mm Hg, but can be adjusted by a doctor depending on individual characteristics. AD monitoring can be carried out at a medical institution, at home using an automatic tonometer or using daily monitoring of blood pressure (SMAD).

• Lipid profile: A blood test for a lipid profile (total cholesterol, LDLC cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, triglycerides) allows you to evaluate the risk of atherosclerosis. The target values ​​of LDL cholesterol (poor cholesterol) depend on the presence of other risk factors and cardiovascular diseases in history. A low content of saturated and trans fats, regular physical exercises and, if necessary, drug therapy (statins) help maintain a healthy level of cholesterol.

• Electrocardodiography (ECG): The ECG records the electrical activity of the heart and can identify rhythm disturbances, signs of ischemia (lack of oxygen), as well as structural changes in the heart. ECG is recommended periodically, especially in the presence of symptoms, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, heartbeat or dizziness.

• SSZ risk assessment: Various Risk assessment tools are used, such as Score or Framingham Calculator, to determine the individual risk of heart attack or stroke for a certain period of time. Based on the risk assessment, the doctor may recommend additional research and preventive measures.

B. Cancer: Early detection is the key to successful treatment

The risk of cancer is increased with age. Screening for the most common types of cancer helps to identify the disease in the early stages, when treatment is most effective.

• Breast cancer: Mammography is recommended for women aged 50 to 74 years every two years. Women with a high risk of developing breast cancer (for example, in the presence of a family history) can be recommended an earlier and frequent screening, as well as magnetic resonance tomography (MRI) of the mammary glands. Regular self -examination of the mammary glands can also help in early detection of changes.

• Tolstoy Cancer: Colonoscopy is the most effective method of screening of colon cancer and is recommended to start from 45 years (depending on the recommendations). During colonoscopy, the doctor can detect and remove polyps, which can eventually degenerate into cancer. Alternative screening methods include a fecal analysis for hidden blood and sigmoidoscopy.

• Cervical cancer: Women who previously passed screening for cervical cancer may need to continue screening after 65 years. Screening includes a papa test (cytological examination of a cervix smear) and testing for a human papillomavirus (HPV).

• Prostate cancer: Screening for prostate cancer (PS-test-blood test for a prostatic specific antigen) is a controversial issue, and the decision on screening should be made individually after discussing with a doctor. An increased PSA level may indicate prostate cancer, but can also be caused by other conditions such as prostatitis or benign prostate hyperplasia.

• Lung cancer: Lung cancer screening using low -like computed tomography (NDCT) is recommended for people with a high risk of developing lung cancer, such as avid smokers or former smokers.

C. Osteoporosis: Fracture prevention

Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by a decrease in bone density, which leads to increased risk of fractures. Osteodensitometry (Dexa scanning) is a method for measuring bone density used to diagnose osteoporosis.

• Dexa scan: It is recommended for women aged 65 years and older, as well as men with a high risk of osteoporosis. The results of Dexa scanning are used to assess the risk of fractures and decision-making on treatment.

• Prevention: Prevention of osteoporosis includes sufficient consumption of calcium and vitamin D, regular physical exercises (especially exercises with weight load), rejection of smoking and moderate drinking. If necessary, drug treatment (bisphosphonates, denosumab, etc.) is prescribed.

D. Type 2 diabetes: blood sugar control

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease characterized by a high blood sugar. Type 2 diabetes screening is recommended for people with risk factors, such as overweight, family history of diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

• Blood test for glucose: It includes the determination of the level of glucose in the blood on the machine, the glucosotolerant test (GTT) and the determination of the level of glycated hemoglobin (HBA1C). HBA1C reflects the average level of glucose in the blood over the past 2-3 months.

• Prevention: The prevention of type 2 diabetes includes healthy nutrition, regular physical exercises and maintaining healthy weight. For people with pre -the -diabet (an increased level of glucose in the blood, but not reaching the level of diabetes), changes in lifestyle and, if necessary, drug treatment can be recommended.

E. visual impairment and hearing: maintaining the quality of life

Age -related vision and hearing changes can significantly reduce the quality of life of the elderly. Regular examinations of an ophthalmologist and an audiologist help to identify and timely treat visual impairment and hearing.

• Ophthalmological inspection: It is recommended annually or once every two years to detect glaucoma, cataracts, age -related macular degeneration and other eyes of the eyes.

• Audiological examination: It is recommended to evaluate hearing and identify hearing loss. If necessary, hearing aids are selected.

F. Cognitive disorders and dementia: Early detection and support

Cognitive disorders and dementia are progressive diseases characterized by a decrease in cognitive functions, such as memory, thinking and speech. Early detection of cognitive disorders allows you to begin treatment and support in the early stages of the disease.

• Assessment of cognitive functions: It includes the use of brief screening tests such as the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) or Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MOCA), as well as more in-depth neuropsychological testing.

• Prevention: Prevention of cognitive impairment includes physical activity, mental stimulation, social activity, healthy nutrition and control of the risk factors of the SVD.

G. Depression: Support for mental health

Depression is a common mental disorder among the elderly, which often remains undiagnosed and untreated. Depression screening is an important part of a comprehensive medical examination.

• Assessment of a mental state: It includes the use of screening questionnaires such as Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), as well as a clinical interview.

• Treatment: Treatment of depression may include psychotherapy, drug treatment (antidepressants) or their combination.

II. Vaccination: protection against infectious diseases

Vaccination is an effective way to protect against infectious diseases that can be especially dangerous for the elderly.

• Flu: An annual flu vaccination is recommended for all people aged 65 years and older.

• Pneumococcal infection: Vaccination against pneumococcal infection is recommended for all people aged 65 years and older. There are two types of pneumococcal vaccines: conjugated pneumococcal vaccine (PCV13 or PCV15) and polysaccharide pneumococcal vaccine (PPSV23). The consistent administration of both vaccines is recommended.

• Disgusting lichen (Herpes Zoster): Vaccination against girdle deprivation is recommended for all people aged 50 years and older, regardless of whether they had chickenpox in childhood. There are two types of vaccines against enclosing lichen: a living attenuated vaccine (Zostavax) and the recombinant vaccine (Shingrix). Shingrix is ​​a preferred option, as it is more effective and has a longer effect.

• Chair, diphtheria, whooping cough (TDAP/TD): TDAP revaccination (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis) is recommended once, and then the TD revaccination (tetanus, diphtheria) every 10 years.

• Covid-19: Vaccination against Covid-19 is recommended for all people aged 65 years and older. Boster vaccination is recommended in accordance with current recommendations.

III. Healthy lifestyle: Health and longevity foundation

A healthy lifestyle plays a decisive role in maintaining health and preventing diseases in old age.

A. Nutrition: Healthy nutrition provides the body with the necessary nutrients, vitamins and minerals necessary for optimal functioning.

• Balanced diet: The diet should be rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, low -fat protein and healthy fats. The consumption of saturated and trans fats, sugar and salt should be limited.

• Sufficient protein consumption: Protein is necessary to maintain muscle mass, immune function and wound healing. Older people often need more protein than young.

• Calcium and vitamin D: Calcium and vitamin D are necessary for the health of bones and the prevention of osteoporosis. It is recommended to consume a sufficient amount of calcium from dairy products, green leafy vegetables or food additives. Vitamin D can be obtained from sunlight, fatty fish or food additives.

• Fiber: Fiber helps to maintain healthy digestion, reduces cholesterol levels and controls blood sugar. It is recommended to use a sufficient amount of fiber from fruits, vegetables, whole grain products and legumes.

• Hydration: Enough fluid intake is necessary to maintain the normal function of the body. Older people often experience a decrease in a sense of thirst, so it is important to regularly drink water during the day.

B. Physical activity: Regular physical exercises help maintain physical form, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve mood and cognitive functions.

• Aerobic exercises: Aerobic exercises (walking, swimming, cycling) strengthen the heart and lungs, improve blood circulation and help control weight. It is recommended to engage in aerobic exercises of moderate intensity of at least 150 minutes a week or intensively intensity of at least 75 minutes a week.

• Power exercises: Power exercises (weight lifting, exercises using elastic ribbons) strengthen muscles and bones, improve balance and reduce the risk of falling. It is recommended to engage in strength exercises at least twice a week.

• Exercises for stretching and balance: Stretching and balance exercises improve flexibility, balance and coordination. It is recommended to engage in stretching and balance exercises daily.

• Individual approach: The type and intensity of physical exercises should be adapted to individual capabilities and restrictions. Before starting physical exercises, it is recommended to consult a doctor.

C. Refusal of smoking: Smoking is one of the main risk factors for the development of many diseases, including SVD, lung cancer and chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD). Refusal of smoking at any age brings health benefits.

• Support: There are various programs and resources to help in the refusal of smoking, including nicotin -replacement therapy, drug treatment and consultations.

D. moderate alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to serious health problems, including liver damage, SVD and cancer. It is recommended to limit the use of alcohol to moderate levels: no more than one drink per day for women and no more than two drinks per day for men.

E. Son: A sufficient sleep is necessary for health and well -being. Older people often experience sleep problems, such as insomnia and frequent awakening at night.

• Sleep hygiene: Improving sleep hygiene can help improve sleep quality. It is recommended to observe a regular sleep mode, create comfortable conditions for sleep, avoid using caffeine and alcohol before bedtime, as well as engage in physical exercises during the day.

F. Stress Management: Chronic stress can negatively affect health. It is important to learn how to effectively manage stress.

• Stress management methods: They include meditation, yoga, tai-chi, deep breath, communication with friends and family, as well as hobbies.

IV. Management of chronic diseases: maintaining the quality of life

Many elderly people suffer from chronic diseases, such as SPZ, diabetes, arthritis and COPD. Effective management of chronic diseases helps maintain the quality of life and prevent complications.

• Compliance with the doctor’s recommendations: It is important to follow the doctor’s recommendations on taking medication, diet and physical exercises.

• Regular medical examinations: Regular medical examinations allow you to control the course of the disease and timely adjust the treatment.

• Self -education: Obtaining information about your disease helps to better understand it and make more conscious treatment decisions.

• Support: Participation in support groups or communication with other people suffering from the same disease can help cope with emotional and social problems associated with a chronic disease.

V. Prevention of falls: maintaining independence

Falls are a common problem among the elderly and can lead to serious injuries, such as fractures. Prevention of falls is an important part of maintaining independence and quality of life.

• Risk assessment of falls: It includes an assessment of the physical condition, vision, hearing, equilibrium and drugs.

• Environmental modification: Elimination of risk factors in the house, such as carpets, bad light and slippery floors.

• Exercise: Equilibrium and coordination exercises help improve stability and reduce the risk of falls.

• Visual and hearing correction: Providing good vision and hearing helps to improve orientation in space and reduce the risk of falls.

• Review of drugs: Some drugs can increase the risk of falls. It is necessary to discuss with the doctor all the drugs taken.

VI. Social activity and psychological support: maintaining emotional well -being

Social activity and psychological support play an important role in maintaining the emotional well -being of older people.

• Social activity: Participation in social events, communication with friends and family, volunteer activities help prevent loneliness and depression.

• Psychological support: Psychological counseling or psychotherapy can help cope with emotional problems, such as depression, anxiety and loneliness.

• Mental stimulation: Reading, solving crosswords, playing chess and other types of mental activity help to maintain cognitive functions.

VII. Official care: Prevention of dental problems

Good care for the oral cavity is important to maintain health and gum health, as well as to prevent other health problems.

• Regular tooth brushing: It is recommended to brush your teeth twice a day with fluorine -containing toothpaste.

• Using tooth thread: It is recommended to use the dental thread daily to remove denture and food residues between the teeth.

• Regular examinations at the dentist: It is recommended to visit the dentist at least twice a year for professional brushing and inspection.

VIII. Safety of drugs: prevention of drug interactions and side effects

Older people often take several drugs at the same time, which increases the risk of drug interactions and side effects.

• Review of drugs: A regular review of all drugs taken with a doctor or pharmacist helps to identify possible drug interactions and side effects.

• Compliance with instructions for use: It is important to comply with instructions for the use of drugs, including dosage, administration time and method of use.

• Side effects message: It is necessary to inform the doctor about any side effects that occur when taking drugs.

IX. Ergonomics and adaptive devices: relief of everyday life

Ergonomics and adaptive devices can help older people perform everyday tasks more easily and safely.

• Ergonomics: The organization of the workplace and everyday tasks, taking into account the principles of ergonomics, can help reduce the load on the joints and muscles.

• Adaptive devices: There are various adaptive devices that can facilitate the performance of everyday tasks, such as capturing cans, thickened handles for cutlery and handrails in the bathroom.

X. Patronage care: home support

Patronage care can provide older people with the necessary support at home, including assistance in performing everyday tasks, caring for patients and social support.

• Assessment of needs: Assessment of the needs of an elderly person helps to determine the necessary volume and type of cartridge care.

• Patronage services: They include help in cooking, cleaning the house, bathing, dressing, taking medication and transportation.

• The choice of patronage service: It is important to choose a reliable and qualified patronage service.

Conclusion

Prevention of diseases in old age is an active and multifaceted process aimed at maintaining health, improving the quality of life and prolonging active longevity. An integrated approach, including screening, vaccination, healthy lifestyle, management of chronic diseases, psychological and social support, plays a key role in ensuring the well -being of older people. An individual prevention plan should be developed jointly with a doctor taking into account age, gender, family history and general health. The active participation of the elderly in the process of maintaining their health and timely seeking medical help are important factors in the successful prevention of diseases and achieve healthy aging.