Aging

The aging or “graying” of America officially began with the Millennium celebration. The 65+ population in the United States will be doubling to 70 million people between 2000 and 2030, with the 85+ segment growing the fastest. One out of every five Americans will soon be over 65 years old.

Americans are living and working longer. But they are also experiencing more chronic diseases as a result. The risk of disease and disability does increase with age, but a focus on good health can help to minimize these risks.

Unhealthy habits such as smoking, poor nutrition and lack of physical activity all contribute to the onset of chronic diseases. Developing healthy daily activities such as daily physical activity, healthy eating and not smoking - is the best cure for minimizing or avoiding these health problems. Prevention is also important by utilizing early detection tests such as screenings for diabetes and breast or colorectal cancers.

Chronic Diseases

Chronic diseases include medical conditions such as Alzheimer’s, arthritis, cancer, depression, diabetes, epilepsy, heart disease, incontinence, obesity, osteoporosis, Parkinson’s and stroke. They are usually not preventable through vaccines or cured by medication. And they do not go away on their own.

Following is more information on these medical conditions, most of which are discussed in detail under their own sections on this web site:

Alzheimer’s, Arthritis, Heart Disease

Cancer is the second most common cause of death in the United States. Cancer is largely controllable through prevention, early detection, and treatment. Breast cancer can be detected by mammography and colorectal cancer by colonoscopy and a fecal occult blood test.

Diabetes

Epilepsy and seizures affect several million Americans, a large percentage of who are the elderly. Following daily medication procedures and maintaining a low-stress daily life are vital to minimizing their impact.

Incontinence, Obesity, Parkinson’s, Stroke

Products for Aging

• Folding Reachers

• Raised toilet seats
• Grab bars
• Standing assists
• Shower chairs
• Bath lifts

• Patient Lifts
• Bed Assists
• Commodes

• Canes
• Walkers
• Wheelchairs / Transport Chairs
• Electric scooters
• Power Chairs
• Ramps

Resources on Aging

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
800 311-3435
www.cdc.gov

The National Council on the Aging
www.ncoa.org

American Society on Aging
415 974-9600
www.asaging.org

Center for Aging Research and Education (CARE)
www.centerforagingresearch.com

National Institute on Aging
301 496 1752
www.nia.nih.gov