Your Health

As we age, health becomes a primary concern for our overall well-being.  In middle adulthood, an individual's physical health encounters new obstacles.  Heart disease is a significant concern as we age.  Heart disease can include heart defects, narrowing, blockage, or stiffened blood vessels, referred to as cardiovascular disease. (Baird, 2019).  Symptoms may include pain in the arms, legs, neck, jaw, throat, abdomen, or back.  Some of the risk factors associated with heart disease may consist of advanced age, family history, smoking, and stress. (Baird, 2019). 

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a condition in which blood flows with a force greater than usual.  Hypertension causes increased strain on the heart, which increases an individual's risk of a heart attack, stroke, or damage to the kidneys. (Baird, 2019).  Some of the risk factors associated with high blood pressure include your family history, diet, obesity, and tobacco or excessive alcohol use. (Baird, 2019).

Research suggests that cancer is the second leading cause of death for Americans. (Xu et al., 2016).  Cancer cells can form almost anywhere in the human body.  While cancer cells grow, they take over the space occupied by normal cells and prevent the body from working the way it is supposed to. (Baird, 2019). 

Several other emerging health concerns in middle adulthood include cholesterol, diabetes, and arthritis.  Some risk factors for these conditions include family history, physical inactivity, obesity, and diet.  

Menopause is a natural condition experienced by women in middle adulthood.  Symptoms of menopause can range from mild to severe, including hot flashes, irregular periods, mood changes, decreased libido, and headaches. (Todd, 2025).

Your mental health can also not be ignored.  Rates of psychological distress are highest during midlife.  Any number of life's challenges can trigger these. (Infurna et al., 2020). 

During the difficult times of coping with physical and mental health obstacles, a glaring concern is always cost.  How am I going to afford all these medical bills?  Roughly 76% of midlife adults have private health insurance, mainly through an employer or an individual-purchased plan. (McSpadden & Sung, 2024).  Research shows that since 2011, health insurance premiums have risen by 38%.  To combat the rising costs, some individuals have scaled back spending on clothing, food, and activities. (McSpadden & Sung, 2024).                      

Health issues can trigger a wide range of emotions.  These emotions may include depression, stress, anxiety, isolation, and suicidal ideation.  Understanding and managing these conditions will significantly impact your overall well-being.  For help addressing these issues, please visit our Overcoming Challenges page for tips and resources.