When it comes to aging, there are some universal truths: Eventually, you’re going to slow down a bit. Maybe your joints aren’t quite what they used to be, maybe you find yourself scheduling more frequent doctor’s appointments, or maybe you need to ask your loved ones for help with tasks you never used to find difficult. Even relatively active seniors who make it a point to eat a healthy diet and take their vitamins often end up dealing with some of these health-related issues. But health-related stressors don’t have to hold seniors back from enjoying their golden years to the fullest. Here are some tips on how to address five common health issues that often arise as we age. Financial Burden Day-to-day expenses start to add up for seniors who suffer from mobility issues or who are living on a fixed income, and this can create significant stress. From medical to housing costs, to food and potential care, there’s a lot of room for worry. Thankfully, seniors have access to Medicare or Medicaid, depending on their financial status.

And this can alleviate some of the financial burden, but there’s more to consider beyond healthcare coverage. This is why it’s important for seniors to budget carefully, and to survey all of their options. Finding ways to reduce costs or cut back is a great start. And, in some cases, selling one’s home and moving into something smaller is a great option to free up cash for future expenses. Staying Mobile Many seniors struggle to adjust to having more limited mobility. While some will eventually choose an assisted living community for this reason, others will prefer to continue living at home. Purchasing and learning to safely use an appropriate mobility aid can boost your quality of life. You may also want to modify certain rooms of your home with your safety in mind. For example, you could hire a contractor to install grab bars in your bathroom. If you’re not able to safely live in your home due to a lack of mobility, it may be time to explore senior living options. Assisted living works well for many seniors, but if you have a serious medical issue requiring round-the-clock care, then a nursing facility will be your best option. SeniorCare.com offers detailed reviews and facility information on many nursing homes in the Dallas area. Dealing With Depression Yes, seniors can deal with mental health issues in addition to physical limitations. But no one has to struggle in silence. Seniors dealing with symptoms of depression should look for a qualified therapist in their area. Many retirees also find that getting involved with volunteer organizations or other groups in their community can ease feelings of loneliness. Other ways seniors can combat depression include taking up a hobby or traveling, both of which can be relatively budget-friendly and which have shown to reduce depressive feelings. Hobbies run the gamut from easy to intricate; it all depends on your interest level and the skills you hope to learn. Woodworking, knitting, painting, playing an instrument, all of these are great hobbies and great stress relievers to consider. Traveling can be as simple as spending a long weekend as a tourist in your own city and staying in a popular vacation spot. It can also mean traveling to visit family, taking a bucket list vacation, or taking road trips to smaller cities in your state. Preventing Falls Sometimes, even healthy seniors can slip and fall. It’s a frightening experience, and it can shake your confidence. But you don’t need to live in fear of falling. Preventing falls from occuring in the first place is the best course of action. According to Nurse Next Door, seniors should get rid of any items in their household that could pose a hazard, like wobbly pieces of furniture, throw rugs, and general clutter. Furthermore, your loved ones should

learn how to safely help after a fall. Weakened Immune System Seniors might notice that they are more prone to coughs, colds, sinus infections, and other illnesses as the years go by. Unfortunately, our immune systems tend to get weaker as we age. Luckily, there are steps you can take to strengthen your immune system and protect against disease. Simmons Fitness & Nutrition offers customized nutrition programs to help you reach all your health goals including building immunity! It’s especially important to stay on top of your usual healthy routines during the cold and flu season. Community Health Magazine suggests getting a flu shot every winter and stocking up on immune-boosting supplements like echinacea and ginseng. Just check in with your doctor before taking any new supplements! Yes, physical changes are just a fact of life for seniors. But seniors who choose to adapt to their new circumstances and ask for assistance when necessary often find that their golden years are no less enjoyable, despite needing to be more proactive about managing their health and well-being. Remember, aging is a privilege, and having a smart personal finance strategy, modifying your home for accessibility, and maintaining basic healthy habits can make a world of difference.