VISITING ANGELS SANTA CLARITA, CA 661-263-2273
Facebook YouTube X
Bringing Awareness to Senior Men’s Health

Bringing Awareness to Senior Men’s Health

Generally speaking, men have an undeserved reputation for being reluctant to go to the doctor. In a survey conducted by the Cleveland Clinic, 72 percent of respondents said they would rather do household chores than visit their doctor. Sixty-five percent of respondents said they prefer to put off going to the doctor as long as possible. When they do go to the doctor, 20 percent reported that they aren’t completely honest with their physician.

Fear is often the underlying factor as to why most men skip their annual physical. However, avoiding regular appointments and withholding the truth only puts men at risk. June is National Men’s Health Month, a national observance used to promote health care for men and encourage them to implement healthy lifestyle choices.

While it’s important for men of all ages to regularly visit their physician, it’s even more vital as men age. Chronic disease affects approximately 75 percent of senior men. Early detection is key to slowing the progression of common chronic diseases. As we prepare to celebrate Dad this month, now is the time to focus on his health so that he stays healthy and physically fit for as long as possible. Here’s what older men need to know about their health.

Top Health Concerns for Older Men

The number one cause of death for men is heart disease. Men generally develop heart disease 10 to 15 years earlier than women, putting them at risk for death in the prime of their life. The second leading cause of death among older men is cancer; specifically, lung cancer, prostate cancer, and colorectal cancer. Type 2 diabetes is also a concern for older men. If left unchecked, it could lead to additional chronic diseases, including stroke, heart attack, kidney failure, blindness, and amputations.

Mental Health Conditions Affect Men Too

Mental health conditions are also a concern for older men, especially since men are more likely to push their feelings aside rather than talk about them. Mental health conditions affect men differently than women and men are less likely than women to seek treatment. Some of the most prevalent mental health conditions among older men are depression, anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Men need to be aware of their mental health and learn to communicate their feelings to a trusted family member or friend, as well as their physician.

Prevention is Key

The good news is that it’s never too late to start taking steps to live a healthier lifestyle. Preventative steps older men should take to lower their risk for chronic disease include eating a healthy diet and regularly exercising. Other steps include scheduling regular doctor appointments, checking cholesterol, glucose levels, and blood pressure, and quitting smoking. Check out MedlinePlus for a full list of health screenings for men over the age of 65. At the very least, older men should have a yearly physical exam, visit the dentist at least once a year, and have an eye exam every one to two years.

Tips to Help You Prepare for Your Next Doctor Appointment

As mentioned above, many men find it difficult to be honest and upfront with their physician. If this is you, here are a few tips to help you prepare for your next appointment. Start by writing down your symptoms, concerns, or questions. That way, you’ll have a list to refer to during your appointment and not forget any details you should mention. Next, recognize that your doctor is your ally. They want to help, and nothing is going to surprise them. If you truly have a difficult time opening up with your doctor, you may need to find someone else whom you can trust. Finally, consider bringing a trusted family member or friend to your next appointment. They can help break the ice with your physician so that you can all have a candid conversation. They can also be a second set of ears as your doctor provides recommendations or referrals.

Visiting Angels of Santa Clarita understands the challenges many seniors face as they age. We’re here to help. We recognize that finding the best in home supportive services is essential. When you choose us as your home care provider, you can have complete peace of mind. Our senior care providers understand the importance of providing care with dignity and respect. You can find top quality senior care services at Visiting Angels of Santa Clarita. To learn more, please contact us today by calling 661-263-2273.

Serving Santa Clarita and the Antelope Valley, CA

Visiting Angels SANTA CLARITA, CA
25115 Avenue Stanford #A101
Valencia, CA 91355
Phone: 661-263-2273
HCO #194700185

Serving Santa Clarita and the Antelope Valley, CA

Visiting Angels SANTA CLARITA, CA
25115 Avenue Stanford #A101
Valencia, CA 91355
Phone: 661-263-2273
HCO #194700185