How to deal with chronic diseases after 60

How to cope with chronic diseases after 60: comprehensive leadership

Part 1: Understanding of chronic diseases and their prevalence in old age

Aging is a natural process, accompanied by various physiological changes that can increase vulnerability to chronic diseases. Chronic diseases are characterized by a long course, slow progression and are often incurable. They require long -term medical observation and treatment, as well as significant changes in lifestyle. At the age of 60 years and older, the risk of developing and the accompanying presence of several chronic diseases increases significantly.

What diseases are considered chronic?

Chronic diseases include a wide range of conditions, including, but not limited:

• Cardiovascular diseases (SVP): Coronal heart disease (coronary heart disease), stroke, heart failure, arterial hypertension (high blood pressure), atherosclerosis.
• Diabetes sugar: Type 1, type 2 and gestational diabetes (which can be predisposed to type 2 diabetes in the future).
• Chronic respiratory diseases: Chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD), asthma, bronchitis, emphysema.
• Osteoarthritis and other joint diseases: Rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis.
• Neurodegenerative diseases: Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, dementia.
• Oncological diseases (cancer): Lung cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, colon cancer and others.
• Mental disorders: Depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder.
• Kidney disease: Chronic kidney disease (HBP).

Why are chronic diseases more widespread after 60 years?

Several factors contribute to an increase in the prevalence of chronic diseases in old age:

• Age changes: With age, the function of organs and systems decreases, muscle mass, bone density decreases, metabolism slows down, the immune system deteriorates. These changes make the body more vulnerable to various diseases.
• Accumulation of risk factors: Throughout life, people are subjected to various risk factors, such as malnutrition, insufficient physical activity, smoking, alcohol abuse, which can accumulate and lead to the development of chronic diseases.
• Genetic predisposition: Some people have a genetic predisposition to certain diseases, which increases the risk of their development with age.
• Reducing protective mechanisms: With age, the body’s ability to restore and regeneration decreases, which slows down the healing process and increases the risk of complications of chronic diseases.
• Drug interaction: Older people often take several drugs at the same time (polypragmasis), which can lead to undesirable interactions and side effects that exacerbate the course of chronic diseases.
• Social and economic factors: Limited access to medical care, poverty, social insulation can negatively affect health and increase the risk of chronic diseases.

The influence of chronic diseases on the quality of life:

Chronic diseases can significantly worsen the quality of life of older people, limiting their physical activity, causing pain and discomfort, reducing social activity and self -esteem. They can lead to dependence on outside assistance, hospitalization and an increase in the costs of medical care.

Part 2: Diagnostics and monitoring of chronic diseases

Early diagnosis and regular monitoring of chronic diseases are crucial for slowing down their progression, preventing complications and improving the quality of life.

Regular medical examinations:

Older people are recommended to undergo regular medical examinations, including:

• A history of anamnesis: The doctor collects information about complaints, medical history, heredity, lifestyle, drugs taken.
• Physical examination: The doctor conducts a general examination, measures blood pressure, pulse, temperature, assesses the condition of the internal organs.
• Laboratory research: Blood tests (general, biochemical, glucose, cholesterol, thyroid hormones, etc.), urine, feces.
• Instrumental research: Electrocardiogram (ECG), chest radiography, ultrasound examination (ultrasound) of the abdominal organs, echocardiography (ultrasound of the heart), colonoscopy, mammography, etc. (depending on indications).
• Assessment of cognitive functions: Memory tests, attention, thinking.
• Evaluation of the emotional state: Frequency for depression and anxiety.

Screening for chronic diseases:

Screening is the process of detecting diseases in the early stages, when there are no symptoms. It is recommended to screening for the following chronic diseases:

• Arterial hypertension: Regular measurement of blood pressure.
• Diabetes sugar: Measurement of glucose levels in the blood on the walls or glucose -tolerant test.
• Tolstoy Cancer: Colonoscopy, fecal analysis for hidden blood.
• Breast cancer: Mammography.
• Prostate cancer: Blood test for prostatic specific antigen (PSA).
• Osteoporosis: Densitometry (measurement of bone density).
• Glaucoma: Measurement of intraocular pressure.
• Thyroid diseases: Blood test for thyroid hormones.

Independent monitoring:

Elderly people can independently control some performance indicators at home:

• Arterial pressure: Regular measurement of blood pressure using a home tonometer.
• Blood glucose levels: Measuring the level of glucose in the blood using a glucometer (for people with diabetes).
• Weight: Regular weighing.
• Pulse: Pulse measurement.
• Symptoms: Attentive observation of any changes in well -being and immediate seeing a doctor when new or deterioration of existing symptoms appear.

Holding a health diary:

It is recommended to keep a health diary in which to record the results of measurements of blood pressure, blood glucose, weight, pulse, and also note any symptoms and drugs taken. This will help the doctor get a more complete picture of the state of health and choose the optimal treatment.

Regular consultations with a doctor:

Regular consultations with a doctor are necessary to assess the effectiveness of treatment, correction of dosage of drugs and identify possible complications. It is necessary to inform the doctor about all changes in the well -being, drugs taken and food additives.

Part 3: Drug treatment of chronic diseases

Drug treatment plays an important role in the control of chronic diseases, relieve symptoms and prevent complications.

The basic principles of drug treatment in old age:

• Individual approach: The choice of drugs and their dosage should be individual, given the age, concomitant diseases, the function of the kidneys and liver, the drugs taken and other factors.
• The minimum effective dose: It is recommended to start treatment with a minimum effective dose of the drug and gradually increase it if necessary.
• Monotherapy: It is preferable to start treatment with one drug (monotherapy) and add other drugs only if necessary.
• Assessment of drug interaction: It is necessary to take into account the possible interaction between various drugs and food additives.
• Evaluation of side effects: Carefully monitor the appearance of side effects and immediately inform the doctor about them.
• Simplification of the treatment regimen: If possible, it is necessary to simplify the administration of drugs in order to facilitate the observance of the doctor’s prescription.
• Regular review of drugs: It is necessary to regularly review the list of drugs taken with a doctor in order to evaluate their effectiveness and the need to continue taking.

The most commonly prescribed groups of drugs for the treatment of chronic diseases:

• Cardiovascular diseases:
  • Angiotensinoprofing enzyme (IAC) and Angiotensin II receptors II (sconces) for the treatment of arterial hypertension and heart failure.
  • Beta blockers-for the treatment of arterial hypertension, angina pectoris and arrhythmias.
  • Diuretics (diuretics) – for the treatment of arterial hypertension and heart failure.
  • Statins-to reduce cholesterol in the blood and the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.
  • Antiplans (aspirin, clopidogrel) – for the prevention of thrombosis.
  • Anticoagulants (warfarin, new oral anticoagulants) – for the prevention of thromboembolic complications.
• Diabetes sugar:
  • Metformin – to reduce the level of glucose in the blood with type 2 diabetes.
  • Derivatives of sulfonylmochevins – to stimulate the production of insulin in type 2 diabetes.
  • Glitazons – to increase sensitivity to insulin with type 2 diabetes.
  • Dipeptidylpeptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors-to stimulate the production of insulin and reduce the production of glucagon with type 2 diabetes.
  • Inhibitors of sodium-glucose coter carrier 2 (SGLT2)-to reduce the level of glucose in the blood by eliminating it with urine with type 2 diabetes.
  • Insulin – for the treatment of type 1 diabetes and some types of type 2 diabetes.
• Chronic respiratory diseases:
  • Bronstillers (beta-2 agonists, anticholinergic drugs, methylxanthins)-to expand the bronchi and relieve breathing with COPD and asthma.
  • Inhalation corticosteroids – to reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract with COP and asthma.
  • Combined preparations (bronchodilator + inhalation corticosteroid) – for the comprehensive treatment of COPD and asthma.
  • Antibiotics – for the treatment of bacterial respiratory tract infections.
• Osteoarthritis and other joint diseases:
  • Analgesics (paracetamol, non -steroidal anti -inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)) – to relieve pain.
  • Chondroprotectors (glucosamine, chondroitin) – for slowing down the destruction of cartilage.
  • Corticosteroids (intra -articular injections) – to reduce inflammation and joint pain.
  • Hyaluronic acid (intra -articular injections) – to improve joint lubrication.
• Neurodegenerative diseases:
  • Cholinesterase inhibitors (dimensional, rivastigmin, galantamine) – to improve cognitive functions in Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Memantin – to improve cognitive functions in Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Levodopa – to reduce the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
  • Antidepressants – for the treatment of depression with neurodegenerative diseases.
• Mental disorders:
  • Antidepressants (selective inhibitors of the reverse capture of serotonin (SIOS), tricyclic antidepressants, reverse capture inhibitors of serotonin and norepinephrine (SIOSSN)) – for the treatment of depression.
  • Anxiolytics (benzodiazepines, bespiron) – for the treatment of alarming disorders.
  • Antipsychotic – for the treatment of psychotic disorders.
  • Normotimics (lithium, valproic acid, carbamazepine) – for the treatment of bipolar disorder.
• Oncological diseases:
  • Chemotherapy – for the destruction of cancer cells using drugs.
  • Radiation therapy – for the destruction of cancer cells using ionizing radiation.
  • Hormonal therapy – for blocking hormones that stimulate the growth of cancer cells.
  • Targeted therapy – for exposure to certain molecules involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells.
  • Immunotherapy – to stimulate the immune system to combat cancer cells.

The importance of compliance with the doctor’s prescriptions:

Strict compliance with the doctor’s prescription, including taking drugs in the correct dosage and at the established time, is crucial for the effective control of chronic diseases. Do not independently stop taking medications or change their dosage without consulting a doctor.

Help in the organization of medication:

To facilitate compliance with the drug administration, you can use:

• Taberteans: Tablets with cells for every day of the week and time of day.
• Reminders: Installation of reminders on a phone or other device.
• Help of relatives or social workers: The request for relatives or social workers to remind you of taking medication.

Part 4: non -drug methods of treatment and symptoms management

Along with drug treatment, non -drug methods play an important role in managing chronic diseases and improving the quality of life.

Changes in the lifestyle:

• Proper nutrition:
  • A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole cereals, low -fat proteins and healthy fats.
  • Limiting the consumption of saturated and trans fats, sugar, salt and processed products.
  • Maintaining a sufficient level of fluid consumption (water, tea, herbal infusions).
  • If necessary, a consultation with a nutritionist to draw up an individual food plan.
• Physical activity:
  • Regular physical exercises of moderate intensity (walking, swimming, cycling) at least 150 minutes a week.
  • Exercises for strength and balance at least twice a week.
  • The choice of physical activity corresponding to physical capabilities and preferences.
  • Consultation with a doctor before starting physical activity.
• Refusal of smoking:
  • Smoking is a risk factor for many chronic diseases, so the refusal of smoking is crucial for improving health.
  • Appeal for help to specialists to refuse smoking.
• Alcohol consumption restriction:
  • Excessive alcohol consumption can aggravate the course of chronic diseases.
  • Compliance with moderation in alcohol or a complete rejection of it.
• Stress management:
  • The use of relaxation techniques (meditation, yoga, breathing exercises).
  • Classes to your favorite thing, communication with friends and family.
  • Application for help to a psychologist or psychotherapist if necessary.
• Sufficient sleep:
  • Ensuring sufficient sleep duration (7-8 hours a day).
  • Compliance with sleep and wakefulness.
  • Creating comfortable sleep conditions (dark, quiet, cool room).

Physiotherapy and rehab:

Physiotherapy and rehabilitation can help improve physical function, reduce pain and improve the quality of life in chronic diseases.

• Medical physical education (exercise therapy): Exercises to strengthen muscles, improve joint mobility and coordination of movements.
• Massage: To relax muscles, reduce pain and improve blood circulation.
• Electrotherapy: To reduce pain and inflammation.
• Thermal and cold procedures: To reduce pain and inflammation.
• Hydrotherapy: To relax muscles, reduce pain and improve blood circulation.

Auxiliary tools and devices:

The use of auxiliary tools and devices can facilitate the performance of everyday tasks and increase independence in chronic diseases.

• Cane or walkers: To improve balance and facilitate movement.
• Special bathroom devices: Handrails, seats for a bath or shower.
• Devices to facilitate opening cans and bottles:
• Orthopedic shoes or insoles: To reduce the legs in the legs and improve posture.

Alternative and complementary medicine:

Some people use alternative and complementary medicine methods to alleviate the symptoms of chronic diseases. It is important to remember that these methods should not replace traditional medical treatment, and before use it is necessary to consult a doctor.

• Acupuncture: To reduce pain and inflammation.
• Phytotherapy: The use of medicinal plants to treat diseases.
• Homeopathy: To stimulate the body’s own protective forces.
• Meditation and yoga: To control stress and improve overall well -being.

Psychological support:

Chronic diseases can have a significant impact on the emotional state, so psychological support plays an important role in managing these diseases.

• Consultations with a psychologist or psychotherapist: To help in adaptation to the disease, stress, the fight against depression and anxiety.
• Support groups: To communicate with people faced with similar problems, and the exchange of experience.
• Relaxation and meditation techniques: To control stress and improve emotional state.

Social support:

Social support from the family, friends and society can have a significant impact on the quality of life of people with chronic diseases.

• Active participation in social life: Maintaining social contacts, participation in public events.
• Help of relatives and friends: Obtaining assistance in the performance of everyday tasks, leaving for yourself.
• Participation in mutual assistance groups: Exchange of experience and gaining support from people faced with similar problems.
• Appeal for help to social workers: Obtaining information about available social services and benefits.

Part 5: Prevention of complications and improving the quality of life

Prevention of complications and improving the quality of life are important goals in managing chronic diseases.

Vaccination:

Older people are recommended to undergo vaccination from influenza, pneumococcal infection, enclosing lichen and other infectious diseases, since they are more susceptible to these infections and have increased risk of complications.

Regular examinations with specialists:

Regular examinations for specialists (cardiologist, endocrinologist, pulmonologist, neurologist, optometrist, etc.) are necessary for monitoring health status, identifying and treating complications of chronic diseases.

Patient training:

Patient training about their disease, methods of treating and prevention of complications is an important component of care of people with chronic diseases.

• Participation in educational programs and seminars:
• Reading books and brochures about your disease:
• Search for information on the Internet on reliable medical sites:
• Task questions to the doctor and other medical workers:

Environmental optimization:

Optimization of the environment can help people with chronic diseases remain more independent and comfortable.

• Removing the dangers of falling: Removal of carpets, wires and other items that can be stumbled about.
• Improving lighting: Providing sufficient lighting in all rooms.
• Using auxiliary means: Installing handrails in the bathroom, using a cane or walker.

Pain Management:

Pain is a common symptom of chronic diseases, and its effective management is crucial for improving the quality of life.

• Medication: The use of analgesics, NSAIDs and other drugs to relieve pain.
• Physiotherapy: The use of exercise therapy, massage and other physiotherapeutic procedures to reduce pain.
• Alternative and complementary medicine: The use of acupuncture, herbal medicine and other methods to relieve pain.
• Psychological methods: The use of relaxation, meditation and cognitive-behavioral therapy for pain control techniques.

Improvement:

Sleep disorders are often found in people with chronic diseases, and their treatment can improve the general state of health and quality of life.

• Compliance with sleep and wakefulness mode:
• Creating comfortable sleep conditions:
• Restriction of caffeine and alcohol consumption before bedtime:
• Regular physical exercises:
• Using relaxation techniques:
• Medication: The use of sleeping pills as prescribed by a doctor.

Maintaining cognitive functions:

It is important for older people to maintain cognitive functions, especially in the presence of neurodegenerative diseases.

• Regular mental activity: Reading, solving crosswords, playing chess, study of foreign languages.
• Social activity: Communication with friends and family, participation in public events.
• Exercise:
• Proper nutrition:
• Control of blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose in the blood:

Memory of dignity and goals:

Chronic diseases can affect self -esteem and self -esteem. It is important to remember your strengths, achievements and goals in life.

• Classes to your favorite business:
  • Volunteering:
  • Communication with friends and family:
  • Setting goals and the desire for them:

Care planning:

Planning for the future can help people with chronic diseases maintain control over their lives and ensure the receipt of the desired care in case of deterioration of health status.

• Discussion with the family and the doctor of their preferences regarding the care:
• Customing of a will:
• The appointment of a trustee for making medical decisions:
• Putting documents necessary for obtaining social services and benefits:

Management of chronic diseases after 60 years requires an integrated approach, including drug treatment, changes in lifestyle, psychological and social support. Early diagnosis, regular monitoring and strict adherence to the doctor’s recommendations are crucial for slowing down the progression of diseases, preventing complications and improving the quality of life. It is important to remember that even in the presence of chronic diseases, you can lead an active and full -fledged lifestyle.