Staying One Step Ahead: Prevention Is Key

Looking after your health doesn’t have to be complicated. We encourage all our patients over 65 to:

• Attend regular health reviews

• Stay up to date with recommended vaccinations (like the flu and pneumococcal vaccine)

• Monitor any changes in health and discuss them with their GP

• Visit our Healthier Living page for guidance on diet, weight management, quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol intake

 

Vaccines for Over 65s

We strongly recommend the following vaccinations:

• Annual flu vaccine – to protect against seasonal flu viruses

• Pneumococcal vaccine – a one-time vaccine given at age 65 to help prevent pneumonia and other related infections

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More details are available on our Vaccines & Immunisations page.

 

Common Conditions in Older Adults

Below are some health conditions that become more common with age. Many of these are manageable with the right care and early intervention. We've included trusted resources and links where you can learn more.

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Arthritis

Joint pain and stiffness are common but manageable. Support and treatments are available to help reduce symptoms and improve mobility.

 

Cancer

The risk of certain cancers increases with age, including prostate, cervical, endometrial, and breast cancers. Regular screenings and early detection are crucial. 

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Dementia

Memory loss and confusion can sometimes signal dementia, but not always. Conditions like depression, infections, or vitamin deficiencies can also cause similar symptoms. If you’re concerned, speak to your GP.

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Depression & Anxiety

Feeling low or anxious is not a normal part of ageing. Symptoms often include tiredness, sleep problems, or weight changes. If you’ve been feeling this way for more than two weeks, talk to us—we’re here to help.

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Diabetes

Especially type 2 diabetes, which is more common in older adults. 

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Eye Health

Vision loss can affect independence and safety. Regular eye checks help catch and treat problems early.

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Hearing Loss

Gradual hearing loss is common and manageable. If you find yourself turning up the volume or struggling in conversations, talk to your GP.

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High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

Often symptomless but dangerous if untreated. Regular checks are important to reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney issues.

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Incontinence

Bladder or bowel control problems can be distressing but are often treatable. Don’t hesitate to ask for help.

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Flu (Influenza)

Flu can be more severe in older adults. Get your annual flu vaccine to stay protected.

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Malnutrition

Unintentional weight loss or reduced appetite can lead to weakness and slower recovery from illness. A balanced diet is key to staying strong and healthy.

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Menopause

A natural part of ageing for women, the menopause can bring physical and emotional changes. 

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Osteoporosis

Bone density naturally decreases with age. Women are especially at risk after menopause. Speak to us about bone health assessments.

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Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Low mood and energy during winter months is common. Light therapy, activity, and support can help.

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Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

UTIs are more common with age and may present differently (e.g. confusion or agitation). Prompt treatment is essential.

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We're Here to Help

If you’re over 65 and have any concerns about your health—or the health of someone you care for—please don’t wait. Early support can make a big difference. 

Make an appointment today, and let’s work together to keep you healthy, active, and independent.

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Useful Links & Resources​​

​Health resources:

• Female Health

• Male Health

• AgeUK - conditions & illnesses

• Irish Nutrition & Dietetic Institute – Healthy ageing resources on keeping active and nutrition.

• NHS - Practical Guide to Healthy Ageing

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Dementia resources:

• The Alzheimer Society of Ireland - is the leading dementia specific service provider in Ireland. The Alzheimer Society of Ireland works across the country in the heart of local communities providing dementia specific services and supports and advocating for the rights and needs of all people living with dementia and their carers.

• Understand Together - is a public support, awareness and information campaign led by HSE, working with The Alzheimer Society of Ireland and Genio campaign. Their website has lots of resources.

• HSE – Dementia information

• AgeUK – Dementia information and resources

• Irish Nutrition & Dietetic Institute – Nutrition and dining resources for carers of those with dementia.

• Global dementia ambassador Helen Rochford-Brennan recently spoke with Tommy Tiernan about her work as a dementia advocate and about her short-term memory challenges and the strategies she uses to work around them. Watch on the RTE player here.

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Other resources:

• HSE - Services for Older People

• HSE - Support & Services for Caring for Older People

• Citizens Information - Health Services for Older People

• Active Link - Older People Information

• Age Action - provides services including Care and Repair, computer training and information, and also campaigns for older people at a national level.

• ALONE - provides Housing with Support, Support Coordination, Befriending, BConnect training and technology, and Campaigns for Change to hundreds of older people every week, who are homeless, socially isolated, living in deprivation or in crisis.

• Active Retirement Ireland - is a national membership organisation that aims to enable older people to lead a full, happy and healthy life through a range of opportunities organised by local older people themselves through local Active Retirement Associations.

• Age & Opportunity - is the Irish national agency working to:

  • Challenge negative attitudes to ageing and older people.

  • Promote the participation of older people in all areas of society, and to encourage understanding between the generations.

  • They also run the Bealtaine Festival, which is Ireland’s national festival which uniquely celebrates the arts and creativity as we age. The festival brings together people from all over Ireland to foster and inspire creativity among older people and to promote the skills, experiences and exposure that can lead to a rich creative life for all older people. Bealtaine is increasingly recognised as a major innovator in the area of the arts, creativity and older people globally and as a result is also about supporting the arts community to continue to work and to inspire and train other artists to engage in the area of creative ageing and intergenerational work.

• Friends of the Elderly - works hard to provide a wide range of social programmes for older people who would benefit from a friendly chat or a social outing. With the help of their many dedicated volunteers and donors they provide companionship, support, social engagement, inter-generational activities and community-based services.​​​

• Think Ahead - Think Ahead is a practical tool and customisable guide for advance care planning and end of life. It helps you document your healthcare choices and personal wishes.