June 15th – 21st is Men’s Health Week in Canada. This week is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of the physical, mental, and social well-being of Canadian men, particularly senior men. Older men face a variety of health issues as they age, that is why we are focusing this blog on problems the older men in our lives should be aware of.
Let’s take a look at three during men’s health week.
1. Prostate Cancer
According to the Canadian Cancer Society, about 1 in 9 Canadian men will develop prostate cancer and it is the most common cancer diagnosis among Canadian men. However, the overall prognosis is high, most men live 15 years past their diagnosis date. Early screening and improvements in treatment have made this possible.
The prostate is located between your bladder, penis, and rectum and it is about the size of a walnut. Because of its position in the body, when it swells – which it usually does – many issues can occur.
Early signs and symptoms can include:
- Blood in the urine
- Blood in seminal fluid
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- New onset of erectile disfunction
- Discomfort while sitting, due to enlarged prostate
- Pressure in the rectum
- Pain in the hips, back, spine, or any area close to the prostate as this may be an indicator that the cancer may have spread
Maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and reducing stress are positive steps you can take to delay a diagnosis.
2. Heart Health
While Heart Disease can affect anyone, it is more common in older ages and seniors. According to the National Institute on Aging, men over the age of 65 are more likely to experience a heart attack, stroke, or develop heart disease. All of which can cause mobility issues and limit activity.
If you feel any pain in your chest, contact a doctor immediately.
Early signs and symptoms can include:
- Pain, numbness, or tingling in your ams, shoulders, neck, jaw, or back
- Shortness of breath during activity
- Shortness of breath while lying flat or at rest
- Chest pain during physical activity
- Headaches
- Cold sweats
- Dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fatigue
Physical activity, quitting smoking, heart-healthy diet, managing stress, reducing consumption of alcohol, and checking blood pressure are ways you can keep your heart healthy.
3. Depression & Suicide
According to the Centre for Suicide Prevention, older adults have the highest suicide rate, particularly men. If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, call the BC Crisis Line at 1-800-784-2433 or your local crisis line, they are there to help.
Warning signs:
- Loss of interest in a previously enjoyed hobby or activity
- Disconnecting from friends or family
- Statements of hopelessness or about being a burden
Signs that warrant immediate action: call 9-1-1 or your local crisis line
- Threatening to kill or harm themselves
- Writing about killing or harming themselves
- Seeking out ways to harm or kill themselves
Good mental and physical health practices, healthy diet, positive relationships, social support, and active interests are some things older adults can do to stay mentally fit.
Health checkups should become a frequent habit for seniors to stay on top any health concerns. If you would like Serenity Home Care to take your loved one to a dentist or doctor visit, please call us. Together, we create better living for those you love.
References:
https://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/prostate-cancer/symptoms-and-signs
https://www.mentalhealthcommission.ca/sites/default/files/2019-05/Older%20adults%20and%20suicide%20fact%20sheet.pdf
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/heart-health-and-aging
https://www.suicideinfo.ca/resource/seniors-suicide/