Aging is an inevitable part of life, and while aging can come with great benefits, like more free time, increased happiness, and more financial stability - certain medical conditions can also start to appear. Below are some common conditions that people experience as they age. If you’re currently managing or just starting to experience any of these conditions, talk to your doctor or find a provider on Sesame who can help you manage your concerns.

Arthritis
There are more than 100 different types of arthritis but osteoarthritis is the most common in the U.S. and it commonly develops after the age of 50 or 60 years old. It also tends to be more prevalent in individuals who are overweight. It often affects joints in your hands, knees, hips and spine. While osteoarthritis can’t be reversed, treatments can reduce pain and help with movement.

Menopause & hot flashes
Menopause is a normal part of a woman’s life and the transition can last several years. It often begins between the ages of 45 and 55. The duration can depend on lifestyle factors such as smoking, as well as race and ethnicity. Many women experience hot flashes, which can last for several years after menopause, and are related to changing estrogen levels.

Hair loss
Hair loss can be the result of genetics, hormonal changes, medical conditions or the result of a normal part of aging. Hereditary hair loss with age is the most common cause of baldness, and men are more often affected than women.

ED
Approximately 1 in 10 adult males will experience erectile dysfunction on a long-term basis. There are often underlying reasons for ED such as stress or anxiety, hypertension, alcohol and tobacco use, diabetes, etc. and ED can occur in men at any age, but it is more common in men 75 and older.

High blood pressure
While genetics, lifestyle and medications all can contribute to high blood pressure, age can also play a factor. As we age, our blood vessels naturally lose their elasticity, leading pressure to build within the vascular system, which causes high blood pressure.

Diabetes
The risk for type 2 diabetes, which makes up 90-95% of all diabetes cases in the U.S., increases after the age of 45. With type 2 diabetes, your body becomes resistant to insulin and doesn’t use it well; this causes destructive, high blood sugar levels. It can develop over years, and can go undiagnosed in many adults. Healthy lifestyle changes such as losing weight, eating healthy and being active can often prevent or delay type 2 diabetes.