Quote:
Originally Posted by graciegirl
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Why not. Some people take medicine to remain healthy.
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First of all, I need to correct the statement I made: The average 75 year old takes 3 to 4 medications per day, and 5 or more is not uncommon.
Your question may be difficult to explain, but I'll give it a try. I don't disagree with what you have said but I think it depends on the individual. Don't forget, I was not talking about you, I was talking in terms of the average 65 year old and the average 75 year old.
People tend to take more and more medications as they get older and I think it's generally known that ALL medications have side effects. Then you have to wonder why this is happening. I mean, why all the medications?
Usually, but not always, the first medication is for high blood pressure. And it has been noticed that people tend to gain weight as they get older, usually at the rate of about 1 lb. per year. Over several decades it can really add up. And this is generally the reason why blood pressure rises with age, although there may be other contributing factors. So, the doctor says, "Mr. Smith, you have high blood pressure and I recommend that you take this medication." Yes, at that point it's better to take the medication to "stay healthy" than to not take it. But the choice I prefer is to see the potential for problems in advance and either not gain the weight in the first place or go on a diet and lose the weight.
The same often (but not always) happens with cholesterol. As a person's weight goes up their cholesterol often follows along. So they will need to take a cholesterol drug.
The same goes for artery disease: As a person gains weight they produce more estrogen and inflammation. Arterial inflammation can cause heart disease.
Inflammation in turn can cause arthritis so you might be put on a anti-inflammatory drug and/or a pain medication.
Most degenerative diseases are brought about by poor lifestyle choices. Once you have gone down that road, you may not be able to turn back. That being the case, your best bet may be to take your medications. It's just sad that it had to get to that point.