Preventive Care

While you may be more likely to avoid a cold as a senior, doctors add this warning: You're at risk of becoming sicker if you do get one.

Flu and pneumonia are respiratory illnesses that should not be taken lightly. In the United States, pneumonia and the flu combined are the sixth leading cause of death. Older adults are at greater risk than younger adults for contracting pneumococcal pneumonia, the most common bacterial form of the disease.

Ignoring your symptoms can end up costing more in the long run because many conditions are more quickly and easily treated if diagnosed in their early stages.

Effective pain treatments are available. You can also take steps yourself to ease ongoing discomfort.

Older adults may have dental concerns that can’t be totally taken care of with just brushing and flossing.

A good night’s sleep is as important to your health as eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise. As we age, however, it can become more difficult to get deep sleep.

After age 65, your body can't adjust to changes in air temperature -- especially heat -- as quickly as it did when you were younger. That puts you at risk for heat-related illnesses.

Age lowers your ability to endure long periods of cold. You're also at risk if your response to cold is impaired by certain illnesses or medications.