What to Expect in Your 80s

By the 80’s, arteries get plaque, bones become brittle, cancer is more likely, organs lose vitality, and skin is easily bruised. Below are strategies for staying healthy during your 80’s and beyond.  For more information, see the list of resources at the end of this post.

Strategies
Balance – Declining balance may cause falls or injury. Reduce risk with aerobic and resistance exercises.
Cognition – Delay cognitive decline by staying physically and mentally active.
Death - It’s probable that you will die by 90, but a healthy lifestyle and medical care can help you live longer.
Disease – Aging brings increased risk of chronic conditions (e.g. Arthritis, Cancer, Diabetes, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, etc.); regular checkups help early detection and treatment to overcome their debilitating effects.
Endurance – Declining cardiovascular and pulmonary function may reduce stamina and require surgery or medication. Get annual checkups, exercise daily, and take naps.
Eyesight – Deteriorating eyes may require treatment to prevent blindness. Get eyes checked annually.
Hearing – Hearing becomes harder at high frequencies and in noisy environments. See an audiologist for hearing aids and ask others to speak clearer, louder, and slower.
Immunity – Decreased immunity comes with aging. Ask your doctor about vaccinations needed to stay healthy (e.g. Covid, Flu, Pneumonia, RSV, Shingles, Tetanus, etc.).
Medication – More medications may be needed to treat age related decline. Avoid adverse side effects by asking doctors to substitute vitamins for drugs or reduce dosage.
Muscles – Mobility declines due to weak muscles and stiff joints. Exercise and consume high protein foods to maintain muscles and joints.
Orthopedics – Bones can become brittle and spines may shorten. Surgery may be needed for back, hips, or knees. Consult an orthopedist, exercise, and consider a daily dose of Vitamin D and Calcium.
Sleep – Aging may cause sleep difficulty. Ask your doctor to check for sleep apnea and do not eat meals or drink alcohol before bedtime.
Time - time will seem to pass quickly; keep a daily journal, stay active, and socialize.

Articles

Books

Videos

Websites
Aging Tips (National Institutes on Aging)
Articles on Aging (National Council on Aging)
Famous People in Their 80’s and 90’s (OnThisDay.com)
Improving the Quality of Aging (MIT’s AgeLab)
Life Expectancy Calculator (Social Security Administration)

 

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