As we get older, we can become more likely to develop certain conditions and other health issues, that much is true for everyone. However, just like older women have their own set of issues specific to them, the same is true of older men, as well.
Here, we’re going to look at some of the issues that are a lot more likely to affect older men and, just as importantly, how they can affect the mental and emotional health and well-being of the men affected by it. Not only to raise awareness but to look at the potential treatments for these health issues, too.
Hair loss
Hair loss can affect older men in a wide variety of ways. Male pattern baldness is very common, affecting 66% of all men, and is more likely to start showing signs as men get older, with many experiencing the first signs of it in their thirties. Naturally, with as much focus as society puts on appearances, especially in terms of representing a youthful, vital male, this can affect men’s self-esteem greatly. A lot of men have success in simply embracing hair loss, and shaving their hair, for instance, but there are also treatments such as hair transplants that may be worth considering.
Erectile dysfunction
ED, or erectile dysfunction, is an issue that can affect men of any age and can have a wide range of causes, both physiological and psychological. However, men who are older are much more likely to experience it, and the pressures to perform sexually, not just to fulfill one’s expected role as a man but to be able to experience a healthy sexual life with a partner, can very stressful and embarrassing. Thankfully, there’s a wide range of effective ED treatments, with Viagra being one of the most popular (with generic alternatives being available over the counter).
Testosterone levels
Given that it’s a hormone most often linked with male sexual development and sexuality, some people might think that testosterone only has to do with sexual health, such as the ED mentioned above. However, testosterone affects all manner of things, including mood, bone mass, muscle mass, as well as red blood cell and sperm production. Hormone replacement therapy does exist but it’s not recommended for all cases of low-T. Some men use supplements like Fadogia Agrestis, which can improve hormone regulation and production. Testosterone therapy can have side effects for men who might have lower testosterone, but not in the very low ranges, so choosing the appropriate measure based on your needs is always wise.
Infertility
Everyone can experience infertility, but male infertility is a topic that is not talked about as often as female infertility. Regardless of what might be implicitly believed by society, infertility is an issue that affects couples equally across the board. 1/3rd of the time, it affects the man in the relationship, 1/3rd of the time, it affects the woman, and 1/3rd of the time, it affects both. As such, it’s important that both members of couple trying to conceive address it.
Incontinence
An issue that can cause a lot of embarrassment and can lead to anxiety about going outside, incontinence becomes more common in older men as the prostrate gland can get bigger as we get older, which puts pressure on the urethra, which makes it more likely for men to experience episodes of incontinence. However, not only can an enlarged prostrate be treated, but it’s important to see a doctor about it as, untreated, it can lead to issues such as bladder damage and infection, which can have long-term repercussions on your health..
Mental health is a complex issue. While problems with self-esteem, depression, stress, and more can develop as a result of the health issues mentioned above, simply treating the root cause of the feelings is not always going to ensure that the resulting mental concerns will disappear as well. It may be worth considering talking to someone about your mental health to see what help is available.