Chronic health conditions have an impact on both mental and physical well-being, but with support and forethought, you can get a handle on your symptoms. Managing chronic conditions in senior living communities means that senior adults have access to the support they need to stay as healthy as possible. Buckner Retirement Services offers senior living care options in each of our six locations in Texas. The right protocol can be managed in collaboration between our residents, their family support network, and our staff.
To learn more about strategies for managing chronic conditions in older adults and senior living care options, call 214.227.7182 to speak to someone at Buckner Retirement Services. We can help you formulate a plan.
Common Chronic Illnesses Among Older Adults
Anyone can experience a chronic health condition, from auto-immune disorders like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis to migraines or Chron’s disease. However, there are certain chronic conditions to which seniors are more prone.
    Some of the more common chronic illnesses among older adults are:
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Cardiovascular disease
- Cancer
- COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Stroke
 These conditions can almost always be managed with medication, and there are other things that can help support the health of someone dealing with a chronic condition.
 Managing Chronic Conditions in Senior Living
Some of the most effective ways to manage chronic conditions involve planning ahead and following through. The support of caregivers and family can be extremely helpful in the success of health management.
 Some proactive strategies for managing chronic conditions in older adults are:
- Keeping track of medications – Following instructions regarding dosage and timing of daily medications can be made easier with alarms and reminders.
- Know your medications – Have a list of your medications and their doses on you at all times so you can share with medical professionals if needed. That way they can assist you if you are alone or away from home.
- Monitor your health – Keep tabs on your symptoms. If you have hypertension, check your blood pressure regularly. If you have diabetes, monitor and medicate. And always see your medical specialists regularly
- Eat for health – A healthy diet is important for anyone at any age, but if you have chronic illnesses, a diet rich in certain nutrients or that avoids specific foods can be important. Always strive to eat for health, given your unique circumstances.
- Reduce stress – Stress can amplify disease symptoms and trigger outbreaks of certain chronic conditions. Using techniques like mindful breathing or meditation can minimize stress and its effects on your body.
- Get exercise – Stretching, moving, and building muscle are all healthy ways to strengthen your body as it contends with chronic illness. Prioritize any exercise that is compatible with your condition.
- Manage your mental health – Exercise and stress reduction benefit your mental health, but make sure you are getting therapeutic help for any symptoms of anxiety or depression. Self-care means care of both mind and body.
- Get plenty of sleep – Good sleep habits ensure your body has the time and energy it needs to keep you strong.
- Avoid exposure to illness – If you have a chronic condition, your body may have a harder time healing from a cold or stomach bug. Make mindful choices by avoiding sick people and large crowds.
Your senior living community staff, doctors, friends, and family want you to stay healthy and will help you find ways to manage your chronic health conditions.
Schedule a Tour at Buckner Retirement Services for Our Senior Living Care Options
Managing chronic health conditions in senior living is something Buckner Retirement Services is very familiar with. Many of our residents are coping with one or more chronic illnesses. We support anyone living in one of our communities who needs to manage ongoing health concerns.
Call 214.227.7182 or fill out this online form to connect with us and start the conversation. Having a chronic health condition does not mean you have to stop living a full life. We can help.