As a society, we've become more attuned to the value of promoting health and preventing disease, rather than merely curing what ails us. But sometimes it's easy to forget that prevention is important at all points of life. Prevention efforts fall into three categories. Secondary prevention aims to detect diseases in their earliest stages, when they're most treatable. And tertiary prevention focuses on preventing complications for people who already have diseases.
Vaccinations are particularly important in the aging population.
Tetanus shots should be updated every 10 years. Diet is moving to the forefront of prevention efforts as more is learned about certain nutrients. Recent evidence suggests, for example, that vitamin E lowers the risk of heart disease, may reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease, and may enhance the immune system. It seems more clear that calcium and vitamin D are important adjuncts in helping to prevent osteoporosis, as is regular weight-bearing exercise. Lynne Woo, R.D., a dietitian with UCLA's Family Health Center, notes that the U.S. recommended daily allowance of calcium for men and women over the age of 65 is 1,500 milligrams.