Page 21 - Florida Sentinel 1-29-21

Health
Weight Creep
No, getting older does not have to equal putting on the pounds. Yes, your metabolism -- how quickly your body burns calories - - often slows as you age. But a poor diet and lack of exercise probably are bigger reasons why the num- ber on your scale climbs higher in your 60s. So get active, build more fat-burn muscles, and watch what you eat.
Skin Changes
During your 60s, your first two layers of your skin -- the epidermis and dermis -- thin and flatten out. Your skin turns drier and itchier and may look like crepe paper or tissue. Wrinkles, age spots, creases, and bruises become more noticeable. Your sweat glands also get less active. That means you might not sweat as much, but wounds on your skin may take longer to heal.
Cancer Risks
If you ever find out you have cancer, you’re most likely to get the news in your 60s. Half of breast cancers are diagnosed at age 61 or older. For colon cancer, the median age is 68. Older age is what’s most likely to raise your odds of having all types of cancer. Get your recommended screen- ings. Ask your doctor how often you should go in for mammogram, colonoscopy, or prostate tests.
Hearing Loss
Wait...what?4outof10 Americans in their 60s have trou- ble hearing. It’s one of the most common conditions of aging. Hair cells in your inner ear naturally die off as you get older. Infections, heart conditions, stroke, head in- jury, or certain medications also can erode your hearing. Yet 80% of people who may benefit from hearing aids don’t wear them.
Heart Troubles
Your mid-60s and beyond are a prime time for a heart attack, stroke, or heart failure. Heart dis- ease is the No. 1 cause of death for Americans. You can’t undo the natural toll that comes with aging. But you can do a lot to keep your ticker healthier. Don’t smoke, and limit salt, sugar, and saturated fats from meats and dairy. Aim for half an hour of walking, yoga or other active moving each day.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2021 FLORIDA SENTINEL BULLETIN PUBLISHED EVERY FRIDAY PAGE 9-B