After 75: 5 Major Health Risks—and What You Can Do
The headline “After age 75, these 5 conditions are major causes of death” needs some context. There isn’t a special list of five diseases that suddenly becomes dangerous at 75. Risk changes with age, and the exact ranking differs by country, sex, and individual health.
In U.S. data, among adults 65 and older, heart disease is the leading cause of death; cancer, stroke, chronic lower-respiratory disease, and Alzheimer disease are also major causes. For people 85 and older, heart disease remains the leading cause, while stroke and chronic respiratory disease become particularly important.
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CDC
1. ❤️ Heart disease
High blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, inactivity, and excess weight can all contribute to cardiovascular disease.
Risk reduction:
Have blood pressure and cholesterol checked regularly.
Take prescribed medicines consistently.
Stay physically active at a level appropriate for you.
Don’t smoke.
Eat a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, and other nutrient-dense foods.
Regular physical activity is associated with lower cardiovascular disease and stroke risk in older adults.
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National Institute on Aging
2. 🎗️ Cancer
Cancer risk generally increases with age. That doesn’t mean every older person needs every possible cancer test, but age-appropriate screening and attention to new symptoms remain important.
Discuss screening with your doctor based on your health, previous screening history, life expectancy, and personal preferences.
3. 🧠 Stroke
Controlling blood pressure is particularly important because hypertension is a major stroke risk factor.
Learn the sudden warning signs: facial drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty, sudden vision problems, severe unexplained headache, or sudden loss of balance. A suspected stroke requires immediate emergency care.
4. 🫁 Chronic respiratory disease
Conditions such as COPD can become increasingly limiting with age.
The most important preventive step for smokers is stopping smoking. Appropriate vaccinations, medical treatment, avoiding respiratory irritants, and staying physically active can also help maintain function.
5. 🧠 Dementia/Alzheimer disease
Alzheimer disease becomes more common with advancing age, but not every memory lapse is dementia.
Regular physical activity, management of cardiovascular risk factors, adequate sleep, social engagement, and addressing hearing and vision problems can all contribute to healthier aging. NIA emphasizes exercise, nutritious food, regular medical care, sleep, and social connection as important components of healthy aging.
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National Institute on Aging
One more danger after 75: falls
Falls aren’t among the five diseases above, but they’re extremely important in later life. They can cause fractures, hospitalization, loss of independence, and disability.
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National Institute on Aging
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Simple measures include:
Review medications that may cause dizziness or drowsiness.
Check vision and hearing.
Remove loose rugs and household obstacles.
Improve lighting, especially at night.
Use handrails and bathroom grab bars where appropriate.
Practice strength and balance exercises.
Use a cane or walker if a healthcare professional recommends one.
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National Institute on Aging
The encouraging part
Being over 75 doesn’t mean decline is inevitable. Physical activity remains beneficial at older ages and can help maintain strength, mobility, independence, and cardiovascular health. Even small amounts of activity are a useful starting point.
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National Institute on Aging
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Keeping vaccinations up to date is also important because infections such as influenza, COVID-19, pneumonia, and shingles can be particularly serious in older adults.
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National Institute on Aging
The goal isn’t simply to live longer—it’s to preserve independence and quality of life for as long as possible.
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