While every person is vastly different, we all share certain vulnerabilities that are common to us all. For seniors, they are all susceptible to similar health woes that could require elderly monitoring care.

Cardiovascular disease is an obvious threat to all people — it is the leading cause of death in the United States. But the chances of developing heart issues increase with age. But cardiovascular disease is not inevitable. Quitting smoking (or better, never starting), exercise and other healthy habits could reduce the risk of heart disease by as much as 80%. And it is never too late to change your life; seniors can do it regardless of their age.

WebMD points out that obesity is a major problem for the elderly. About 75% of all seniors are either overweight or obese. Weighing too much can lead to all sorts of problems, including diabetes, high blood pressure, certain cancers, and of course, the above mentioned heart problems. Once again, a healthy lifestyle including better eating habits will reduce your risk of obesity-related ailments and help avoid elderly monitoring care.

Osteoporosis is a major concern, especially among women. Bone loss effects 44 million Americans age 50 or older. This leads to a weakened body which could lead to a serious fall. Falls can be a life-changing event for a senior, never in a good way. If you are prone to falling, you might want to think about elderly monitoring care including a medical alert system with fall detection.

Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are huge fears for the elderly. Studies show 3% of seniors between the age of 65 and 74 have Alzheimer’s.  A stunning half of seniors over the age of 85 might have it. Unfortunately, there is nothing you can do to prevent these brain diseases.

It is important for all seniors to live a healthy lifestyle in order to ward off the problems that they can control. For the things they cannot control, elderly monitoring care is available.