4 Uncommon Medical Conditions Diagnosed in the Elderly

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Rare Conditions Elderly Develop in Toronto, ON

There are a number of signs your loved one is aging. While some of these signs are evident, others may remain hidden until the senior years. Toronto senior home care experts have researched 4 rare medical conditions seniors may develop and want to share a detailed look at each of them.

1. Frontotemporal Degeneration

Also referred to as frontotemporal dementia, this unique condition slowly destroys many of the essential proteins found in the brain. This disease is often misdiagnosed for years because the symptoms are either mild or attributed to other conditions. One of the most effective ways to prevent frontotemporal degeneration is to prevent brain trauma. Regular exercise, stretching, and maintaining a safe home can reduce your loved one’s risk of falling and damaging his or her temporal lobe. 

2. Senior-Løken Syndrome

Senior-Løken syndrome develops when non-functional kidney cells impact a senior’s vision. During the initial stages, your loved one may notice mild symptoms such as macular degeneration, hypertension, and slight memory loss. Seniors who have a family member with this medical condition should consult their doctor about being screened and tested. Lifestyle changes, such as altering their diet to promote kidney health, are highly recommended for seniors tested positive with Senior-Løken Syndrome.

3. Shy-Drager Syndrome

This condition is almost exclusively diagnosed in men over age 60. The most common symptom is urinary incontinence. Shy-Drager is very similar to Parkinson’s, and both of these conditions are treated almost identically by focusing on managing the symptoms. While medical experts are still unsure as to what causes this disease, scientists have discovered Shy-Drager Syndrome is common among men with high blood pressure and other cardiovascular conditions. Focusing on cardio training, a healthy diet, and good sleeping habits can help seniors prevent this disease.

4. Felty’s Syndrome

Seniors who are unable to manage rheumatoid arthritis can develop Felty’s syndrome. Over time, Felty’s can decrease a senior’s white blood cell count and make him or her more prone to infections and other illnesses. Currently, there are no effective home remedies for Felty’s. However, your loved one can prevent this condition by regularly taking prescribed rheumatoid arthritis medication and keeping his or her joints as healthy as possible.

Encourage your loved one to focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. If you’re looking for a reliable and experienced caregiver for your loved one, turn to Home Care Assistance. Our highly trained professionals are available around the clock to provide hourly and live-in care. Toronto seniors and their families highly recommend our services and have helped us reach out to seniors all across Ontario. To learn more about our elderly care services and how we can help your loved one maintain a higher quality of life, contact one of our Care Manager today at (416) 488-8777.

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