Hearing loss is one of the most common and most significant health challenges seniors face. In fact, one in three adults over the age of 65 have some degree of difficulty hearing. This “invisible disability” can impact an older adult’s quality of life, interpersonal relationships, and even their physical and mental well-being.

The influenza virus poses a serious health risk to seniors. In a typical flu season, older adults account for 70 to 90 percent of flu-related deaths and 50 to 70 percent of hospital influenza admissions. Taking steps to avoid it is crucial.

The benefits of exercise and a healthy diet are well documented. Most of us hear them repeated by our primary care physician. In recent years, researchers have identified another negative behavior that plays a vital role in healthy aging: sitting too much. It is so important that some experts refer to a sedentary lifestyle as the new smoking epidemic.

When it comes to fires, older adults are at higher risk of injury and loss of life than younger people. In fact, the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) says seniors are 2.5 times more likely to lose their life in a home fire than other age groups. Depending on where they live, an older adult might be at risk for another type of fire: wildfires.

Retirement is a chapter most adults look forward to reaching. While having some well-deserved leisure time is important, living your best retirement also requires finding purpose. That can be more difficult when the kids are grown and your career is left behind.

Maybe you are one of the lucky people who’ve never experienced a serious sunburn or any sun-related skin problem. But like so many things in life, risk factors change as we grow older. With aging often comes more delicate skin, putting seniors at higher risk for skin sensitivity and sun damage.

The relationship between an older adult and their primary care physician is important. While most seniors understand that, some are frustrated at the limited time they have to ask their doctor questions. Physicians’ calendars are often packed, which can make it difficult to have all of your concerns fully addressed.