Like most men, I am not one to run to the doctor for every ache, pain, or symptom I experience. However, being married to a nurse is certainly a bonus when maladies arise! If I’m not feeling well, I address my concerns with Damey before making an appointment to see my physician, because I absolutely trust her with my life.
The majority of men are not married to a nurse who can make professional assessments, though, so it is important men see their doctor or nurse practitioner whenever there is a health issue.
Summa Health Akron & Barberton says the five major health concerns for senior men in northeast Ohio have been identified as:
- Cardiovascular Disease
- Mental Health Needs
- The Opioid Epidemic
- Chronic Lower Respiratory Diseases & Tobacco-Related Issues
- Lower Physical Activity and Eating Habits
Cardiovascular Disease
According to the Ohio Department of Health, “Heart disease is a costly and deadly burden to the state of Ohio. In 2016, heart disease killed more than 26,000 Ohioans, and Ohio had the 13th highest rate of deaths from heart disease in the nation. In addition to being the leading cause of death, heart disease can lead to decreased quality of life, increased disability and higher healthcare costs. Many people who have heart disease have other chronic conditions as well. Most adults have at least one risk factor for developing heart disease.”
Considering these alarming facts and statistics, it is more important than ever that aging men carefully examine their lifestyle choices, routinely see their primary care provider, and closely monitor the signs and symptoms of cardiovascular disease.
Mental Health Needs
There is more being said about mental health these days than ever before, and that is a very good thing, in our opinion. The state of one’s mental health impacts mood, behavior, as well as physical and emotional well-being.
Summa Health explains, “Mental health is an intricate system that can include a variety of conditions and diseases, with symptoms ranging from short-term to long-term. In the U.S., one in five individuals is affected by at least one mental health condition. Individuals can experience a range of issues that can affect mood, behavior, cognitive processing and physical pain. Suicide rates in certain counties of Ohio are two points above the national benchmark.”
Forget negative stigmas! Senior men in the Canton area who are experiencing isolation, depression, anxiety, or other mental conditions should not hesitate to reach out to their doctor or Home Helpers for resources that can help.
Opioid Epidemic
“It is no secret there is an opioid epidemic in the United States. Every day, more than 115 people die after overdosing on opioids. Ohio ranks in the top five highest rates of overdose mortality. At least 20 percent of patients that visit a physician for pain symptoms will receive a prescription for an opioid. At Summa, we offer support to those struggling with addiction through inpatient and outpatient programs, as well as our First Step program on our Akron and Barberton campuses.”
Chronic Lower Respiratory Diseases
“Chronic lower respiratory disease is the fourth leading cause of death, behind cancer and heart disease. Chronic lower respiratory disease includes a variety of diseases that affect the lungs, such as chronic obstructed pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema (a type of COPD) and chronic bronchitis. These diseases are most common in smokers--in fact, almost 80 percent of cases are due to cigarette smoking,” says Summa.
If you are a smoker with respiratory problems and you are ready to quit, consider attending one of the smoking cessation classes offered at Summa. If Home Helpers can provide transportation or any other form of assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out!
Lower Physical Activity and Eating Habits
Summa says, “Residents in northeast Ohio lack sufficient physical activity at higher rates than the rest of the country. A well-balanced diet with daily physical activity can significantly reduce the risk of one of our top concerns - cardiovascular disease. Regular exercise is one of the most beneficial (and cost-effective) activities you can do to better your health.”
Moreover, men over 50 should pay attention to their nutritional requirements which change with age. Too much sugar, processed, fast, and fried foods can contribute to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and excess weight gain, which in turn, may negatively influence mental health.
Since June is Men’s Health Month, Damey and I want to shine a spotlight on these five major health concerns for men over the age of 50 in the Canton, Ohio area, because we care.
If a compassionate Home Helpers® caregiver can provide companionship, assistance with personal care, light housekeeping, or other in-home care services for you or a special senior man you know, Damey and I are happy to schedule a FREE consultation at your convenience to assess specific needs and determine ways we can help in Making Life Easier™ for him. 330.892.9329
Home Helpers® Canton, OH, is Veteran-owned and operated. We are honored to have received the Home Care Pulse – Best of Home Care® Provider of Choice Award, the Shooting Star Award (2011), and multiple Platinum awards for the superior level of care we provide. We are Certified Senior Advisors and members of the Home Care Association of America, Alzheimer’s Association, and the International Franchise Association. In addition, we were ranked in the Top 500 Franchises by Entrepreneur Magazine in 2019.
Home Helpers® Canton proudly serves male and female seniors in Stark County, Portage County, and portions of Summit County including the communities of Akron, Alliance, Canton, East Sparta, Hartville, Jackson, Massillon, Navarre, North Canton, Randolph, and surrounding areas.
Sources:
Summa Health
Ohio Department of Health
