Managing Chronic Illnesses in Retirement

Few of us are blessed with health so perfect that we do not have some sort of chronic illness to manage and contend with as we age. A 'chronic' disease is one that lasts indefinitely and, while they can usually be controlled by medication, they are not usually curable.

In retirement, one of our major concerns is the management of chronic diseases and the prevention of their progression. For most of us that equates to trying to maintain our body's fitness through an active lifestyle.

Once we are diagnosed with a chronic disease, it is critical that we pay strict attention to our healthcare provider, follow their instructions to the letter, and take all of the prescribed medications in the dosage and on the schedule directed by the physician. To do otherwise means to risk your happy retirement and eventually, your life. Among the chronic conditions that you may have are:

Alzheimer's Disease - an advanced brain disease affecting orientation and memory

Arthritis - the leading cause of disability in the U.S.

Cancer - the second leading cause of death

Cardiovascular Disease - restriction of the blood vessels.

Dementia - a disease causing you to be disoriented and forgetful.

Diabetes - Your body's inability to secrete proper levels of insulin.

Heart Disease - a weakness of the heart muscle impacting circulation

Kidney Disease - a disease affecting the ability of the kidney function properly

Liver Disease - affecting the function of th eliver to cleanse our blood

There are many other chronic diseases that affect the aging population. Each month, the "Chronic Corner" of our newsletter highlights a specific disease. Be sure to sign up for our free email nesletter by clicking here Note: The author, publisher and webmaster of Retireeworld.com never gives legal, accounting, medical or any other type of advice. The reader must always seek those services from competent professionals that can review their own particular circumstances. We particularly disclaim any liability, loss, or risk taken by individuals who directly or indirectly act on the information contained herein. All readers must accept full responsibility for their use of this material.