Declining Health for Middle Aged Adults

Health Changes for the Middle Aged Adult

As we age, we experience many changes that can affect us both physically and emotionally. Middle age adults have many health concerns that they need to be aware of and they must be proactive about addressing these concerns before they have adverse effects on their health. Some physical concerns middle age adults should be concerned with include hyperlipidemia, hypertension and stroke. Physical health concerns can often be linked to psychosocial health concerns. These may include depression and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Nurses can help middle age adults to reduce their risk of suffering from future physical and psychosocial health concerns by implementing an individualized care plan that includes both educational and medical interventions.

Physical Health Concerns

Hyperlipidemia is a common health concern among middle age adults. According to MacMahon and Wierzbicki, “Hyperlipidemia refers to raised serum levels of one or more among total cholesterol, LDL-C and triglycerides, either alone or in combination” (MacMahon & Wierbicki, 2011, p. 182). The body produces low-density lipoproteins or LDL and high-density lipoproteins or HDL. A high LDL level is often associated with an increased risk for coronary heart disease. Although it is important for the body to have lipids because they assist in the production of energy, and repair of cell membranes, lipid levels that exceed the bodies needs may result in the build up of plaque in the arteries. If left untreated, hyperlipidemia can increase the risk of developing atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke. Some common causes include of hyperlipidemia include age, genetics, hypertens...

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...in a health promotion activity. One of the best forms of exercises that a middle age adult can participate in is swimming. Swimming is perfect for a middle age adult because it is low impact and is less stressful on joints, while at the same time provides a challenging aerobic workout. It can also be continued into old age and is a lifestyle change that middle age adults can maintain throughout their lifetime.

Conclusion

People of all ages can benefit greatly by learning about health issues that may affect them at different stages in life. By educating middle age adults on physical health issues such as hyperlipidemia, hypertension and stroke and psychosocial health issues such as depression and PTSD, they can have a better understanding of why they are important and how they can reduce their risks by seeking treatment and making positive lifestyle changes.