Several articles have recently been published in which various strategies have been considered to improve the prognosis and life situation of people over 75 years of age.
First, the ability of statins (drugs used to lower cholesterol levels) to prevent cardiovascular accidents such as stroke, myocardial infarction, etc. has been evaluated. A study included people over 75 years of age who were divided into two groups: those between 75 and 84 years of age and those over 85 years old. Treatment with statins was indicated in all of them, which was started when they were enrolled in the study and then they were followed for 5 years. The results were compared with a control group (without statins). Investigators found that in the group aged 75-84 years treated with statins the risk of cardiovascular accident was reduced by 1.2% and in those over 85 years of age by 4.4%. From other studies it is known that to obtain beneficial results, the minimum duration of treatment with statins is at least two and a half years.
The role of vitamin D in the vital prognosis of older people has also been assessed. In people over 75 years of age, the administration of vitamin D is recommended to maintain normal levels of this vitamin and thus obtain a possible reduction in all causes of mortality.
The importance of practising sport
Finally, with age, physical activity decreases, and this has a negative impact on life prognosis. In people over 75 years of age, physical exercise is essential to maintain health and cognitive activity. Thus, a study has been published in which people classified as sedentary (without physical activity), with light activity (walking around the house or during work) and with moderate or vigorous activity (walking for exercise) have been followed for 20 years. “Healthy” was defined as the absence of physical, mental, or cognitive impairment. It was found that sedentary people had less chance of aging healthily, while in those who were physically active, the chance of aging healthily increased by 6%.
At our Foundation, Dr. Carreño’s medical team recommends to all patients (regardless of their age and liver disease) to exercise, among other things, as it is beneficial for both their physical and mental health.
