What Are Chronic Illnesses? How Assisted Living Can Help You Manage Them

If you struggle to control your blood sugar or manage your heart disease, you’re not alone. Millions of Americans live with chronic illnesses. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control state that 129 million people in the U.S. have at least one serious chronic illness.

But what are chronic illnesses and how can you best manage them? Does assisted living offer hope and relief?

At Coastal Pointe, many of our residents are dealing with several chronic illnesses at the same time. One of the advantages of our assisted living community in Shallotte is that we have a close working relationship with your healthcare team—meaning we can help you follow your prescribed course of treatment and assist you if there are any changes in your condition. We invite you to learn more about how our community can provide you or someone you love with peace of mind. 

What Are Chronic Illnesses?

If you have a medical condition that lasts more than a year and requires constant medical monitoring, then you have a chronic illness. Chronic illnesses may limit your daily activities. Some are preventable, and good nutrition, exercise, and limiting alcohol use can go a long way toward reducing your risk of developing chronic illnesses.

Chronic diseases are the leading causes of disability and death in the U.S.

How Coastal Pointe Helps Our Residents With Chronic Illnesses

First, let’s be clear: At Coastal Pointe, you’re not a patient—you’re a resident. We see our community as a family. We’re not like other assisted living communities owned by large corporations that bury you in paperwork and red tape. Coastal Pointe is family-owned and operated. In fact, don’t be surprised if you see our administrators in your local grocery store.

At Coastal Pointe, we work carefully with your healthcare team to be sure all detailed instructions are followed. Through our assisted living community, we are always available should an emergency arise, and if your condition changes, we have close contact with your doctors who can make any adjustments needed.

What Are Examples of Chronic Illnesses?

Sometimes, answering ‘what are chronic illnesses?’ is easier by providing a list of examples. 

The following are some of the most common chronic diseases:

  • Diabetes
  • Cancer
  • Alzheimer’s (or other dementias)
  • Cystic Fibrosis
  • Arthritis
  • HIV/AIDS
  • COPD
  • High blood pressure

You can find a more extensive list of chronic conditions through the National Library of Medicine, which provides tips on how to cope and live with them.

Can You Be Healthy With a Chronic Illness?

It depends. In general, if you see your doctor regularly and follow their healthcare plan, you can lead a fulfilled, healthy life. While some chronic diseases have no cure, they can be managed successfully. Self-management education programs can help.

Can You Live a Normal Life With Chronic Illness?

It’s possible, but it depends upon several factors, such as: 

  • The type of chronic illness you have
  • The stage of your chronic illness
  • Whether or not your illness is well-controlled
  • How successfully you manage it
  • The severity of your illness
  • How closely you follow the advice of your healthcare team

Many serious chronic illnesses, such as cystic fibrosis, can make it very challenging to do activities you once enjoyed. However, working with your physician can go a long way toward helping you live a life that is as normal as possible.

Graphic of most common chronic illnesses in adults

What Are the 10 Chronic Conditions?

There are more than 10 chronic conditions. However, the 10 most common chronic illnesses found in older adults are:

  1. High blood pressure
  2. High cholesterol
  3. Obesity
  4. Arthritis
  5. Heart disease
  6. Diabetes
  7. Kidney disease
  8. Heart failure
  9. Depression 
  10. Alzhiemer’s and other dementias

Assisted Living at Coastal Pointe Can Help You Manage Your Chronic Disease

Living with a chronic illness can be frustrating, challenging and even depressing. That’s why it’s important to surround yourself with a team that truly cares about every aspect of your wellness. 

Wellness isn’t limited to your physical health. We believe wellness encompasses enjoying your favorite activities, making new friends, and being free from the worrisome demands of everyday tasks. 

Assisted living in Shallotte is the perfect choice for those who need assistance managing their chronic illnesses. If you, or someone you love, needs the peace of mind that comes from having extra help available 24/7, then contact us for a tour. But hurry, our spaces fill quickly.

 

The content within this article and others on this website is only for educational purposes and should not be considered as medical advice. For any questions or concerns, please consult with your healthcare provider.