“There is no clear-cut answer to that question,” consultant geriatrician Professor Dr Tan Maw Pin says when we ask her this question. “There are many factors to consider.”
For one thing, the answer depends on whether the person has any existing health conditions. Someone with type 2 diabetes, for example, may find their sense of touch being affected by the condition over time, especially if their diabetes is not properly controlled.
Other factors may include physical geography and cultural elements. People in the Himalayan region, for example, have a high prevalence of eye problems such as cataract. In Nepal, glaucoma (an eye condition that can lead to blindness) is prevalent as the people in that country age – a survey from the World Health Organization and the Nepal Blindness Survey estimated that the rate could range from 3.2 percent to as high as 9 percent. It is thought that the prevalence of these problems could be due to a combination of poor nutrition, lack of proper sanitation, the climate and other issues.
“There are many variables, and therefore which sense will be affected first by ageing can differ from person to person,” Prof Dr Tan says. “There is no ‘secret formula’, sadly, as everyone is a unique individual! It may be more worthwhile to focus on how we can go for certain screenings as we age to detect potential problems early.”
Let’s find out what these recommended screenings are.
BLOOD PRESSURE
Have our blood pressure checked every year or two.
Where? At any clinic.
Why? Age is a risk factor for high blood pressure. The older we are, the more likely we develop this condition. Earlier detection will allow for better management and reduced risk of heart problems in the future.
EYESIGHT
When we are 40 or older, we should go for an eye screening every 1-2 years.
Where? At an optometrist’s clinic.
This story is from the December 2018 edition of Health Today Malaysia.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the December 2018 edition of Health Today Malaysia.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
When Depression Strikes Teenagers
It can be difficult to imagine that those in the carefree days of youth can be hit by such a somber illness. However, the numbers don’t lie: a significant number of young people suffer from depression and this figure is on the rise. Our contributing psychiatrist reveals the facts about teenage depression and how to spot the signs.
5 Things You Should Know About Probiotics
If you haven’t heard of probiotics or have been wondering what they are, here are some basics on the topic to get you started.
Internet Safety For Children
There’s nothing more comforting than to have your chicks safely back in the roost as they unwind on their gadgets in the solace of their rooms. But are they truly alone in their rooms and are they truly safe? Online gadgets are windows to another world, and no one is looking out for your child there. So how do we shield them from the unwarranted possibilities that lie in that realm?
A Cuppa Joe, Anyone?
Coffee, one of the most widely consumed drinks in the world, is derived from the beans of Coffea canephora (best known as robusta) and C. arabica. Coffee is unique in terms of its perceived and actual effects on the body and is also loved for its distinct aroma and taste. Our general perception about coffee is that it can keep us awake. However, its benefits go beyond the “wake-me-up” action and it can be categorized as a health drink.
Emilia Clarke - Conquers Real-life Adversities
Her on-screen character, Daenerys Targaryen from Game of Thrones was meant to be a blend of Napoleon, Joan of Arc and Lawrence of Arabia—courageous heroes of the past. But when illness struck actress Emilia Clarke, she had to channel some of that strength and bravery into her real-life situation.
The Fertility Revolution
A pioneer in Malaysia's fertility treatment offers his insight on two revolutionaryadvances that made a big difference in bringing hope to many couples who are unable to conceive naturally.
6 Skin Myths Debunked
A pimple has erupted on your nose (oh, horrors). Family members and friends are quick to give you well-meaning advice, while the internet abounds with ‘effective’ tips and solutions. But how do you know if any of that information is true?
Addiction: What You Don't Know
Addictive behaviours have been described as one of the greatest scourages of humankind. In order to treat it, we have to first understand what courses it.
Hello, Hunky Hemsworth!
With the third Thor movie, Thor: Ragnarok set to open in just a few weeks, we turn our attention to the big, blond, easy-on-the eyes star – Chris Hemsworth.
Battling Two Cancers
Being diagnosed with liver cancer was bad enough, but as he was fighting for recovery, Mohd Salleh Yusof was struck by lung cancer as well. Determined to enjoy life to the fullest, Salleh shares his experience with HealthToday.