As the population ages in the United Kingdom, it becomes increasingly important to recognize the common old age diseases and conditions that seniors may face. By understanding these ailments, preventative measures can be taken and appropriate treatment can be administered in a timely manner. Here we delve into 10 common health problems in elderly in the UK.

Arthritis

Arthritis is a group of conditions that cause joint inflammation and pain. The most common forms of arthritis include osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is the most common and occurs due to wear and tear on the joints over time, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder in which the body attacks its own joint tissue. Symptoms of arthritis include joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and decreased range of motion.

According to the Arthritis Foundation, more than 10 million people in the UK have arthritis, making it the leading cause of disability in the country. Arthritis is more common in women than men, and its prevalence increases with age making it one of the common health problems in elderly in the UK.

Dementia

Dementia is a broad term used to describe a decline in cognitive function that interferes with daily activities. Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia and accounts for approximately 60-80% of cases. Symptoms of dementia include memory loss, difficulty communicating, mood changes, and disorientation.

Dementia primarily affects older adults, with the majority of cases occurring in those over 65 years old. According to the Alzheimer's Society, there are currently over 850,000 people living with dementia in the UK. This number is expected to rise to over 1 million by 2025 and over 2 million by 2051.

Learn more about Dealing with Dementia and Dementia Care to provide better care for dementia.

Depression and Anxiety

Depression and anxiety are common mental health conditions that can affect individuals of any age but are more prevalent among the elderly population. Symptoms of depression include persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite and sleep patterns. Symptoms of anxiety include excessive worry, restlessness, and difficulty concentrating.

According to the Mental Health Foundation, approximately 22% of men and 28% of women over 65 in the UK experience symptoms of depression. Additionally, it is estimated that around 20% of older adults in the UK experience anxiety.

Read more on Mental Health in Older Adults.

Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the body's ability to regulate blood sugar levels. Type 2 diabetes (also known as non-insulin-dependent diabetes) is characterised by insulin resistance, which means that the body's cells do not respond to insulin as effectively as they should or when the body does not produce enough insulin. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, accounting for 90% of all cases. It typically develops in middle-aged or older adults, but can also occur in children and young adults. Symptoms of diabetes include increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and blurred vision.

According to Diabetes UK, around 4.9 million people in the UK have diabetes, and approximately 90% of these cases are type 2 diabetes. Diabetes is more common in older adults, with the prevalence increasing with age.

Read also, Diabetes care: Effective ways for Diabetes Management.

Eye and Vision Issues

As individuals age, their eyesight can deteriorate due to a variety of factors, such as cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, and glaucoma. Symptoms of these conditions include blurry vision, difficulty seeing in low light, and loss of peripheral vision.

According to the Royal National Institute of Blind People, there are currently over 2 million people in the UK living with sight loss. This number is expected to rise to over 2.7 million by 2030. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataracts, and glaucoma are some of the most common health problems in Elderly.

Read also, Is ageing a disease?

Hearing Loss

Hearing loss is a common condition among the elderly and can be caused by exposure to loud noises, genetics, and certain medications. Symptoms of hearing loss include difficulty hearing conversations, ringing in the ears, and the need to turn up the volume on the TV or radio.

Hearing loss is another prevalent condition among older adults. According to the Action on Hearing Loss charity, around 12 million people in the UK have some form of hearing loss, and this number is expected to increase to 15.6 million by 2035. Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, is the most common form of hearing loss in older adults.

High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a condition in which the force of blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high. It can lead to a variety of health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. Symptoms of high blood pressure include headaches, blurred vision, and chest pain.

According to the British Heart Foundation, around 1 in 4 adults in the UK have high blood pressure. The prevalence of hypertension increases with age, and it is estimated that around 60% of adults over 60 in the UK have high blood pressure.

Here are some useful ways to Manage Hypertension in Elderly.

Incontinence

Incontinence is a condition in which an individual is unable to control their bladder or bowel movements. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including nerve damage, weak pelvic muscles, and certain medications. Symptoms of incontinence include frequent urination, sudden urges to urinate, and leaking urine.

Incontinence is a common condition among older adults, particularly women. According to the NHS, around 6 million people in the UK have some form of urinary incontinence, with women being twice as likely to experience it as men. Incontinence can have a significant impact on an individual's quality of life and can lead to social isolation and depression.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition in which the bones become brittle and fragile, making them more susceptible to fractures. It is more common in women than men and can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal changes and a lack of calcium and vitamin D. Symptoms of osteoporosis include back pain, loss of height, and fractures that occur with minimal trauma.

Osteoporosis is a condition where the bones become brittle and fragile, increasing the risk of fractures. According to the National Osteoporosis Society, osteoporosis affects over 3 million people in the UK, with the majority being women over the age of 50. Osteoporosis can have a significant impact on an individual's quality of life and can lead to disability and loss of independence.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are infections that can occur anywhere in the urinary system, including the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra. UTIs are more common in women than men, and the risk of developing a UTI increases with age. In older adults, UTIs can be particularly concerning as they can lead to more serious health complications if left untreated.

Common symptoms may include a frequent need to urinate, a burning sensation when urinating, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, and pelvic pain. In some cases, older adults with UTIs may experience confusion, agitation, or other changes in mental status, which can be mistaken for dementia or other conditions. If an older adult experiences these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.

In the UK, UTIs are estimated to affect around 150 million people per year, with the majority of cases occurring in women. According to the NHS, around one in three women over the age of 24 will have a UTI at some point in their life, and the risk increases with age. As we age, the risk of developing a UTI increases due to a variety of factors, such as a weakened immune system, reduced bladder capacity, and reduced oestrogen levels in women.

While some of these conditions may be unavoidable, there are often steps that can be taken to manage or prevent them, such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and regular check-ups with a doctor. By staying informed and taking proactive steps to protect our health, we can all work towards a healthier and happier old age.

PCL Connect, our innovative health and care monitoring tablet, can be your ultimate solution to ensuring the well-being of ageing adults. Family members can help their elderly loved ones to stay on top of their health, allowing them to detect any changes or emergencies proactively. 

PCL Connect will track their vital signs, remind them of important tasks and medications, and ensure that their care is coordinated.  Invest in PCL Connect today and easily manage the common health problems in elderly for your ageing parents or grandparents. Enjoy the ultimate peace mind for you and your loved ones!