June Spotlight: Men’s Health Month – Empowering Senior Men to Take Charge of Their Well-being

June is recognized as Men’s Health Month, a national observance to raise awareness about the health issues affecting men and boys, particularly those that can be prevented or detected early with regular screenings and healthy lifestyle choices.

At Guided Care, we recognize the unique health challenges that older men face and believe that education, early intervention, and support are vital to improving their quality of life as they age.

As men age, they become more vulnerable to several chronic conditions and health risks. Despite this, statistics show that men are less likely than women to visit the doctor regularly, take preventive health measures, or seek care until symptoms are advanced.

Men’s Health Month serves as a powerful reminder to elderly men—and those who love and care for them—that proactive health management is essential to aging well.

Common Health Conditions Affecting Elderly Men

1. Heart Disease – The leading cause of death among men aged 65+.

2. Prostate Cancer – The second most common cancer in men; risk increases with age.

3. Diabetes – Can lead to kidney failure, nerve damage, and cardiovascular issues.

4. High Blood Pressure – Often called the "silent killer" because it shows no symptoms.

5. Depression & Mental Health – Frequently underdiagnosed due to stigma.

6. Low Testosterone & Erectile Dysfunction – Impact both physical health and mental well-being.

7. Osteoporosis – Though more common in women, men are not immune—especially over age 70.

Who Is Most Affected?

• Age group: Men aged 60 and older are at higher risk for most chronic diseases.

• Ethnicity: African American and Hispanic men experience higher rates of heart disease, prostate cancer, and diabetes.

• Behavioral factors: Men are more likely to engage in unhealthy behaviors such as smoking, heavy alcohol use, and avoiding medical check-ups.

Key Statistics (CDC & NIH, 2024 Data)

• 1 in 3 men has high blood pressure, but only about half have it under control.

• Prostate cancer affects 1 in 8 men during their lifetime.

• Men are 24% less likely than women to have visited a doctor in the past year.

• Depression in older men is often untreated—men aged 85+ have the highest suicide rate of any age/gender group.

How to Promote Better Health for Senior Men

1. Routine Check-Ups & Screenings

Encourage regular visits to the doctor for:

• Blood pressure and cholesterol checks

• Prostate exams

• Diabetes screenings

• Colonoscopy (recommended every 10 years starting at age 50)

2. Healthy Lifestyle Choices

• Balanced Diet: Limit red meat, processed foods, and added sugars.

• Exercise: 30 minutes of moderate activity 5 times a week boosts cardiovascular and mental health.

• Quit Smoking & Limit Alcohol: These are major contributors to chronic illness and premature death.

3. Mental Health Support

• Stay socially connected through hobbies, community groups, or support programs.

• Talk openly about emotions—mental health matters at every age.

4. Medication Management

Ensure that prescriptions are taken as directed and that drug interactions are monitored, especially in men taking multiple medications.

Support Resources for Men and Their Caregivers

• Men’s Health Network – www.menshealthnetwork.org

• National Institute on Aging – Men’s Health – www.nia.nih.gov/health/mens-health

• American Heart Association – www.heart.org

  
  

At Guided Care, we offer non-medical home care services that support aging men with dignity—from daily assistance and companionship to medication reminders and wellness support.

Men’s Health Month is more than just a health campaign—it’s a call to action. Whether you're a son, father, husband, or friend, prioritizing your health can lead to a longer, more fulfilling life.

Let’s work together to break the stigma and start the conversation about aging men’s health. Guided Care is here to walk the journey with you—because your health matters, every day.