Osteo ignorance—
Contrary to popular belief, osteoporosis—bone loss and weakening—does NOT only affect women as they age. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, two million men already have the disorder and another 12 million are at risk. “If you didn’t see the May 1st cover story in The Erickson Tribune on “
Osteoporosis: Men’s Other Silent Killer,”. Ask your doctor or dietitian for advice on foods rich in calcium (older men need 1,200 mg. daily, just like older women), the use of calcium supplements, and even bone-strengthening exercises.
Going at it alone— According to one 2005 study, only 44 percent of men who needed treatment for psychological problems sought it. Anything can be a cause of psychological distress—from money worries to a major life-altering event. So talk to people. If finances are fretting you, talk to your partner or a financial planner. If you are grieving the death of a loved one you may need another kind of expertise, such as your religious advisor or even a professional counselor.
For Women
Not getting enough sleep—
The National Sleep Foundation says 61 percent of post-menopausal women report insomnia. Many women are multi-taskers. It is not unusual for women who have assumed a very tough caregiving role to try and maintain the same level of volunteer service they provided 10 years ago. Ask your doctor for advice. Also check out our article, “
Winning The Sleep Fight".
Ignoring heart disease and colon cancer—Most women labor under the misconception that these two conditions are men’s problems. Neither is true. The American Heart Association confirms heart disease is the number one killer of women, especially after age 50. It is believed certain hormones protect women earlier in life. If you have been nagging the guy in your life to get a stress test, EKG, cholesterol test, etc., it is time you considered going with him.
After age 50, women are just as likely as men to develop colon cancer. The National Women’s Health Information Center says colon cancer is the third leading cancer among women (after lung and breast cancer). Women as well as men should have a colonoscopy. If you are over 60 and haven’t had a baseline colonoscopy, you should have one as soon as possible. If you have had this test, ask your doctor how often you need to have it repeated. Remember: colon cancer is 90 percent curable if caught early.
Confusing the words “natural” and “safe”—
It is especially tempting to seek “natural” remedies as you age in order to avoid adding one more prescription to your medicine chest. Women are more likely to explore these and other health alternatives.
That is fine, as long as you understand that “natural” doesn’t automatically mean “safe.” Belladonna is all natural and is even used in certain medications, but it is also a deadly poison. If you are not sure how well a natural remedy has been tested, it is probably best to forego it.
Forgetting to floss—
Women have a higher rate of gum disease (and the resulting dental problems) than men. The American Academy of Periodontology says 44 percent of women ages 55 to 90 who still have their teeth have advanced periodontitis (gum disease). So while you are brushing those pearlies, make sure to floss those gums, too. And see your dentist regnot alwularly.