Some physical problems usually arise or worsen with age. At the bottom of this page, you will find a list of decision aids that can help you in choosing between different treatment options for diseases of the elderly, such as:
- Hair loss (alopecia, baldness)
- Hearing loss (hearing aids, hearing devices)
- Cataract
- Osteoarthritis (OA, degenerative joint disease)
- Osteoporosis
- Difficulties with driving a car
- Receiving care at home or in a facility
- Planning long-term care (home care, senior housing, nursing home)
- Alzheimer's disease
Dealing with age-related problems
The mentioned problems are very different. Therefore, the treatment options differ from each other as well. Sometimes, the main question is whether it is time to take action. This depends partly on how much the problem bothers you, the expected course of the disease, and if its treatment has many side effects. The following questions can play a role: How much does it bother me? What are the risks of the disease or problem? Can the disease cure spontaneously? Should I be treated now to prevent worsening in the future? How effective are the treatments? What are the side effects of the treatments? Can I manage the disease by living healthily? Can I keep living at home if the disease progresses?
Your choice
Below, you will find a list of decision aids that can help you in determining which approach best suits your personal situation and wishes. Please discuss the decision aids with your doctor before you make your final decision.
Making preparations for the future
Age-related problems often worsen as you get older. Sometimes, the progress of the disease can be inhibited with drugs or surgery, but not always. Either way, it is wise to start thinking now about what you want to do if your disease progresses. In this way, you can make preparations, so that you can get the wanted treatment or help as soon as you need it.
Hair loss (OHRI): taking drugs or not EN
Hearing loss (OHRI): using hearing devices or not EN
Cataract (OHRI): surgery or no surgery EN
Osteoarthritis (OHRI): multiple decision aids about the treatment methods EN
Osteoporosis (OHRI): multiple decision aids about the treatment methods EN
Parkinson's disease: treatments and experiences NL
Driving problems (OHRI): quitting or keeping on driving EN
Osteoporosis: treatments to prevent fractures NL
Mayoclinic: Osteoporosis: biphosphates, yes or no EN