Health conditions as you age

As you age, it is important to be aware of:

• common health conditions
• their signs
• how to prevent them.

Common conditions are listed below.

For information about other health conditions you may experience as you age, please visit the HealthDirect website.

Alzheimer's disease and dementia

• Alzheimer's disease affects brain function, memory and behaviour. Learn more about Alzheimer's disease on the HealthDirect website.
• Dementia affects your thinking, behaviour and ability to perform everyday tasks. Learn more about dementia on the HealthDirect website.

Bone health and osteoporosis

From your 40’s onwards, your bones gradually lose their density. Learn more about how to keep your bones healthy and avoid osteoporosis on the HealthDirect website.

Falls

Anyone can be at risk of having a fall, but some older adults are more vulnerable than others. Learn more about preventing falls.

Glaucoma and eye health

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve. Learn more on the:

• HealthDirect glaucoma website page 
• eyes and vision section of our website.

Hearing loss

Hearing loss is usually permanent. You can protect your hearing by avoiding loud noise. Learn more on the:

• HealthDirect hearing loss website page
• audiology section of our website.

High blood pressure (hypertension)

High blood pressure is common but often has no symptoms. Learn how to keep your blood pressure under control on the HealthDirect website.

Incontinence

Incontinence can be treated, managed and even cured. Learn more about incontinence on the HealthDirect website.

Mental health and depression

• Learn more about mental health and services on our website.
• Learn more about depression on the HealthDirect website.

Parkinson's disease

Parkinson’s disease results from damage to nerve cells in the brain, which impacts the smooth control of muscles and movement. Learn more about Parkinson's disease on the HealthDirect website.