Health Resources for Older Women

The golden years are often some of the best years of our life. They do, however, come with an increased risk of health issues. Many of these health problems affect women only for biological reasons.  We look at 15 of the most common issues that affect older women and the health resources available to support them. If a condition is not listed below, the  U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office on Women’s Health provides a comprehensive A-Z health guide on health issues that commonly affect women. 

Jump to: 

• Alzheimer’s / Dementia
• Arthritis
• Breast Cancer
• Depression and Mental Health
• Diabetes
• Flu
• Hearing Loss
• Heart Disease/Blood Pressure
• Incontinence
• Menopause
• Osteoporosis
• Ovarian Cancer
• Skin Cancer
• Obesity
• Vision Loss

Alzheimer’s / Dementia

Alzheimer’s disease is a degenerative brain disease and the most common form of dementia. Dementia is not a specific disease but instead an overall term that describes a group of symptoms. 1 in 3 seniors die from Alzheimer’s or another dementia.

• Alzheimer’s Association – aims to lead the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia. Local chapters in each state provide a range of care and support services, education and advocacy to people living in the area. 
• Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia – The Federal Government portal which provides information on care, research, and support.
• National Institute on Aging – Alzheimer’s Caregivers – Provides resources for caregivers on how to respond to changes in communication and behavior, provide everyday care, and get help when needed.
• Alzheimers Foundation of America – Provide support, services and education to individuals, families and caregivers affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. They continue to fund research for better treatment and a cure.

See more on Sixty and Me: Understanding and Dealing with Alzheimer’s Disease 

Arthritis

Arthritis is a common condition that causes pain and inflammation in a joint. It is most commonly seen in adults over the age of 65 but can affect people of all ages. It is more common in women than men, and in people who are overweight. With over 100 different types of arthritis, there is a wide spectrum of symptoms, causes and treatment. The most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

• Arthritis Foundation – Provides a powerful network of support through shared experiences, empowering information and meaningful connections.
• National Institutes of Health – Arthritis – Provides in depth medical information, resources and research on Arthritis in older adults. 
• CDC / National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion – Fact sheets, information on interventions and the CDCs Arthritis Program. 

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is an uncontrolled growth of breast cells, referring to a malignant tumor that has developed from cells in the breast. It is estimated that 1 in 8 U.S. women (about 13%) will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of her lifetime.

• Breastcancer.org – nonprofit organization dedicated to providing information, research and community to those touched by this disease.
• American Cancer Society – provides expert information and resources, alongside the American Cancer Society Reach To Recovery program, which puts those going through breast cancer in touch with a breast cancer survivor. 
• National Cancer Institute – provides information on breast cancer prevention, screening, treatment, statistics, research, clinical trials, and more.
• National Breast Cancer Foundation – offers free, innovative programs to women facing breast cancer, so that no one faces breast cancer alone.
• Breast Cancer Research Foundation – provide critical funding for cancer research worldwide to fuel advances in tumor biology, genetics, prevention, treatment, metastasis and survivorship.
• Breast Cancer Prevention Partners – science-based policy and advocacy organization working to prevent breast cancer by eliminating our exposure to toxic chemicals and radiation.
• The Office of Cancer Complementary and Alternative Medicine (OCCAM) – OCCAM coordinates and enhances the activities of the National Cancer Institute (NCI) in the arena of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM).

Depression and Mental Health

Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Depression is a common problem among older adults, but it is not a normal part of aging. Symptoms in older adults may differ to those typically shown by younger people. More than 21 million people in the U.S. live with mood disorders.

If you feel suicidal call 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255 or 1-800-799-4889 (TTY)

• Mentalhealth.gov – U.S. Department of Health & Human Services site giving information, advice and resources on mental health. 
• National Institute on Aging Depression and Older Adults – Resource specifically aimed at older adults including symptoms, treatment and advice. 
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones.
• Mental Health America –  Fact sheets, resources and key information on Depression in older adults and mental health in general. 
• Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) – comprehensive resource for more than 21 million people in the U.S. who live with mood disorders. We provide education, tools, peer support, and a wealth of inspiring stories to help you pursue your own path to wellness.
• American Psychiatric Association – organization of psychiatrists working together to ensure humane care and effective treatment for all persons with mental illness.
• International Foundation for Research and Education on Depression – iFred’s mission is to shine a positive light on mental health and eliminate stigma through prevention, research and education.
• National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) – the lead federal agency for research on mental disorders.

Diabetes

Diabetes occurs when your blood glucose (sugar) is too high. Insulin helps glucose from food get into your cells to be used for energy but people with diabetes find their body doesn’t make enough. The most common types of diabetes are type 1 and type 2. Diabetes affects 1 in 4 people over the age of 65.

• National institute on Aging – Diabetes in Older People – Information on steps to take to delay or prevent type 2 diabetes.
• American Diabetes Association – Mission to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes. 
• Center for Disease Control and Prevention – Information, resources and infographics on type 1 and type 2 diabetes. 
• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases – In depth resource including symptoms, treatment and management.  
• Diabetes Research Institute – One of the largest and most comprehensive research centers dedicated to curing diabetes, it is working to develop a biological cure for diabetes.
• World Health Organization – Statistics, facts, overview and resources regarding diabetes. 

Flu

Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza viruses. It is different to a cold and comes on suddenly. The virus infects the nose, throat and lungs and can be classed as mild to severe. In some cases it can lead to death, particularly in the older generations, so it is recommended to take the flu vaccine each year.

• Center for Disease Control and Prevention – Key Facts About Influenza (Flu) including symptoms, statistics and treatment. 
• National Institute on Aging – Information about Flu and the Flu shot.  
• American Lung Association – Key information on flu Symptoms, causes, and risk factors.
• Vaccines.gov – Federal government website with important information on the benefit of the flu shot and how to access it. 

Hearing Loss

Hearing loss can range from mild to profound and can affect either one, or both ears. There are many causes and it is most common among people older than 60. Approximately one in three people between the ages of 65 and 74 have hearing loss, and nearly half of people aged 75 and above have difficulty hearing.

• National Institute on Aging – Hearing Loss – Hearing loss can have many different causes. Learn about common causes of hearing loss and when to see your doctor. Information aimed specific at older people. 
• Healthy Hearing – The largest directory of trusted hearing clinics in the U.S. with thousands of hearing care professionals ready to help you hear your best.
• Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA) – The nation’s leading organization representing consumers with hearing loss.
• National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders – specific information on age-related hearing loss (presbycusis).
• World Health Organization – Resources and key facts on deafness and hearing loss.
• American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) – Making effective communication, a human right, accessible and achievable for all.

For hearing aid reviews, hearing loss statistics and key resources see: Sixty and Me Hearing Resources

Heart Disease / Blood Pressure

Heart disease is the number one cause of death in the United States accounting for approximately one in four deaths. In the United States, the most common type of heart disease is coronary artery disease (CAD). The term ‘heart disease’ encompases a number of different types of heart conditions.

• Center for Disease Control and Prevention – Information about heart disease, prevention, treatment and resources. 
• American Heart Association – the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke.
• National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) – provides global leadership for a research, training, and education program to promote the prevention and treatment of heart, lung, and blood disorders and enhance the health of all individuals so that they can live longer and more fulfilling lives.
• Healthy People 2030 – Their goal is to improve cardiovascular health and reduce deaths from heart disease and stroke.
• Go Red For Women – social initiative designed by the American Heart Association (AHA) to empower women to take charge of their heart health.

See more on SixtyandMe: Senior Blood Pressure Guide

Incontinence

Urinary incontinence (the loss of bladder control) is most common in older people, affecting twice as many women as men. The two most common types of urinary incontinence are stress incontinence and urge incontinence The good news is that with help from a health care professional incontinence can often be cured or controlled. It is not a normal part of aging. 

• National Institute on Aging – Information regarding urinary incontinence in older adults including causes, diagnosis and treatment. 
• Urology Care Foundation – The foundation supports urologic research and strives to provide the most current, comprehensive and reliable urologic health information for patients and the public.
• Office on Women’s Health – In depth guide to urinary incontinence focusing specifically on women. 
• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists – Guide covering the frequently asked questions on urinary incontinence. 

Menopause

Menopause is diagnosed after you’ve gone 12 months without a menstrual period. The average age in the United States is 51, but it can affect women in their 40s. Menopause is a natural biological process with symptoms such as hot flashes, distruped sleep and weight gain. 

• MedlinePlus – Health information on the Menopause from the U.S. National Library of Medicine. 
• National Institute on Aging – Guide to understanding menopause. 
• The North American Menopause Society – North America’s leading nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the health and quality of life of all women during midlife and beyond through an understanding of menopause and healthy aging.
• Menopausal Hormone Therapy Information – findings from the Women’s Health Initiative and other studies offering information about the risks and benefits of long-term menopausal hormone therapy.
• Office on Women’s Health – Guide to menopause including symptoms, treatment and health. 

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a bone disease that occurs when the bones in the body begin to weaken or become brittle. As a result, bones become fragile and can break much easier than usual from a fall or, in serious cases, from mild stresses such as bending over or coughing. It affects both men and women, but research has identified that white and Asian women – particularly older women who are past menopause, are at the highest risk.

• National Osteoporosis Foundation – the leading health organization dedicated to preventing osteoporosis and promoting strong bones for life through programs of public and clinician awareness, education, advocacy and research.
• The NIH Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases ~ National Resource Center – in depth guide to osteoporosis providing key health information. 
• National Institute on Aging (NIA) – Resource outlining key risks and causes, testing, symptoms and treatment. 
• American College of Rheumatology – professional membership organization committed to improving the care of patients with rheumatic disease. Provides caregiver and patient factsheets, videos and resources. 
• Orthoinfo – Provides answers to some common questions about osteoporosis and PDF handouts. 

Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is where malignant cells are found inside, near, or on the outer layer of the ovaries. It typically affects women who are 60 years and older with only 10 to 15 percent of cases diagnosed before menopause. 

• National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC) – mission to save lives through the prevention and cure of ovarian cancer and to improve quality of life for Survivors and their Caregivers. Provides information on all aspects of ovarian cancer. 
• Cancer.org – Provides information for those who have ovarian cancer or are close to someone who does. Covers topics such as risk factors, symptoms, how it is found, and how it is treated.
• MedlinePlus – Website from the U.S. National Library of Medicine, covering health information, research and resources. 
• Center for Disease Control and Prevention – Health information, resources, statistics, personal stories and information about the ‘Inside Knowledge’ campaign which raises awareness of the five main types of gynecologic cancer. 
• Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance – The largest global nonprofit whose mission is to advance ovarian cancer research alongside supporting women and their families.
• Foundation for Women’s Cancer – Provides key information on ovarian cancer. It introduces the people who are likely to be part of a treatment team and showcases the different types of treatments for ovarian cancer to help those diagnosed prepare better.

Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. The incidence of all skin cancers continues to rise and the elderly are at particular risk. A large number of skin cancer cases are found in people older than 65 years of age. Malignant melanoma accounts for the greatest number of skin cancer–related deaths in the elderly.

• Cancer.Net – Guide to Skin Cancer (Non-Melanoma). The guide is reviewed by experts on the Cancer.Net Editorial Board, which is composed of medical, surgical, radiation, gynecologic, and pediatric oncologists, oncology nurses, physician assistants, social workers, and patient advocates.
• American Academy of Dermatology Association – Skin cancer resource center with dermatologists’ expertise to help people prevent and find skin cancer and information to make informed-treatment decisions. 
• The Skin Cancer Foundation – Aim to educate the public and the medical community about skin cancer, its prevention by means of sun protection, the need for early detection and prompt, effective treatment.
• Center for Disease Control and Prevention – Comprehensive guide on skin cancer including symptoms, risk factors and screening. 

Obesity

As we age, hormonal changes and a less active lifestyle increase the risk of obesity. Recent estimates from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys show obesity rates of 39.4% in females over 60, with the U.S. adult obesity rate standing at 42.4 percent. The national adult obesity rate has increased by 26 percent since 2008. Obesity is a risk factor for many chronic illnesses. 

• The State of Obesity 2020: Better Policies for a Healthier America – Report by the Trust for America’s Health (TFAH) including a special feature on food insecurity and its connection to obesity.
• Obesity Action Coalition – The OAC’s Membership Community is a diverse group of individuals who are interested in getting more connected to their health and changing the world for people living with obesity. Includes a resource section and specific articles on older adults. 
• Center for Disease Control and Prevention – Adult Overweight and Obesity resource section including a BMI calculator. 
• World Health Organization – Fact sheets, guidelines, Q&As, initiatives and resources relating to obesity. 
• American Psychological Association – Psychological research and guidelines to help with obesity. 

For more information on physical activity guidelines and staying active see: Physical Activity Guide for Seniors

Vision Loss

Approximately one person in three has some form of vision-reducing eye disease by the age of 65. The most common causes of vision loss among the elderly are age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataract and diabetic retinopathy. Vision impairment can lead to a decreased ability to perform activities of daily living and an increased risk for depression. For some, it may also be no longer possible to drive.

• National Institute on Aging – Aging and Your Eyes – Information on common eye problems and how to protect your eyes.
• National Eye Institute – NEI’s mission is to conduct and support vision research and education programs that protect and prolong vision. 
• Center for Disease Control and Prevention – Vision Health Initiative (VHI) including tips to help prevent vision loss and the effect of aging. 

Conclusion

As we age, health issues become more prevalent. Understanding the diagnosis and what treatment options are available can be confusing and overwhelming. There are, however, a number of excellent health resources to guide you. If you have any concerns about your health it is recommended that the first step is to visit a health care professional for an accurate medical diagnosis.