7 Costly Health Problems That Strike After Age 50

Senior woman with injured leg
eakkachai halang / Shutterstock.com

As we age, health issues often creep up that threaten to tarnish our golden years. Treating some of these diseases and conditions can be expensive.

Fortunately, there are ways to cut the cost of such care. Following are some health conditions that tend to strike after age 50 — and how to cut the cost of care if you are diagnosed with them.

Arthritis

Arthritis pain
New Africa / Shutterstock.com

Arthritis strikes about 54.4 million Americans, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC adds that in 2013, adults with arthritis on average paid an extra $2,117 in medical costs.

How to cut costs. The Arthritis Foundation has a webpage devoted to ways to trim the tab for arthritis care.

Osteoporosis

Broken bone
Laura v.d. Broek / Shutterstock.com

Around 54 million Americans have low bone density or osteoporosis, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation. Among women over the age of 50, 1 in 2 will break a bone due to the disease. Among men that age, the figure is 1 in 4.

How to cut costs. One study found that osteoporosis care cost the nation $22 billion in 2008. Prescription medications often are used to treat this condition, so ask your doctor about using less costly generic drugs.

Weight-bearing exercise — such as lifting weights, walking or running, and activities such as tennis — is also a great way to build bone density, and it costs little or nothing to do.

Finally, relatively cheap vitamin D supplements can help your body use calcium and strengthen bones. Ask your doctor if they are right for you.

Diabetes

Diabetes
Vladimir Mulder / Shutterstock.com

More than 34 million Americans have diabetes. Your risk for the disease increases as you age; more than one-quarter of adults ages 65 or older have diabetes.

Diabetes costs the nation $327 billion annually, according to the American Diabetes Association. Patients diagnosed with diabetes bear the brunt of those costs. The Mayo Clinic has noted that the price of insulin for patients is higher in the U.S. than in other countries.

How to cut costs. Getting tested early for diabetes is the key to keeping care costs under control. As the disease progresses, it can become more dangerous — and significantly more expensive to treat.

If you have diabetes, your costs will be lower if your health insurance covers your treatments. The ADA’s Diabetes Forecast magazine has some tips for persuading your insurer to help pay for diabetes devices and supplies.

Finally, a healthful diet and regular exercise can help you control diabetes. In some cases, your efforts might be so effective that you no longer need expensive treatment. The ADA has tips for food and exercise on its website.

Obesity

jakub-cejpek / Shutterstock.com

As the years roll on, our waistlines expand. More than one-third of adults 65 and older are obese, according to a 2007-2010 survey report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC estimated in a 2009 report that an obese person spent 42% more for health care — an average of $1,429 per person — than people of normal weight.

How to cut costs. Slimming down significantly reduces your risk of being diagnosed with many costly health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, cancer and osteoarthritis.

Switching to a healthful diet and starting an exercise program are inexpensive ways to avoid the costs associated with obesity.

Heart problems

Heart
siam.pukkato / Shutterstock.com

Simply put, heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the U.S.

This condition encompasses many problems related to atherosclerosis, a narrowing of the arteries due to a buildup of fats, cholesterol and other substances. Heart disease cost the nation $219 billion from 2014 to 2015, according to the CDC.

How to cut costs. Several medical conditions are closely related to a higher risk of developing heart disease. They include:

  • High blood pressure
  • High LDL cholesterol
  • Smoking

A better diet and regular exercise can help you reduce your blood pressure and improve your cholesterol readings. And quitting smoking is among the best ways to both improve your health and save some money.

Declining oral health

Dentist
Dmitry Kalinovsky / Shutterstock.com

About 26% of Americans ages 65 and older have eight or fewer teeth, according to the CDC. That’s a sobering reminder that our oral health begins to slip as we age. The CDC notes that conditions such as severe periodontal disease and oral and pharyngeal cancer primarily affect older adults.

Treating such conditions can be expensive. The cost of dental expenditures reached $136 billion in 2018, according to the American Dental Association.

How to cut costs. Regular visits to the dentist are the best way to catch conditions early, when they are less costly to treat. The ADA notes that while some people should see their dentist just once or twice annually, others may require more frequent visits. Consult with your dentist to find the right schedule for you.

Dental visits can be costly if you do not have dental insurance. The ADA website offers help finding more affordable care.

Shingles

Shingles
one photo / Shutterstock.com

While this illness is likely to be far less costly than others on the list, it deserves attention because it is so prevalent in the over-50 demographic. In fact, half of all cases of shingles are diagnosed in people 60 and older.

And complications related to shingles — from blisters to an ongoing type of pain called post-herpetic neuralgia, or PHN — can take a toll on your wallet.

How to cut costs. Fortunately, there is an easy and affordable fix for shingles: vaccination. As we have reported a new vaccine is more than 90% effective in preventing shingles in folks age 50 and older. For more, check out “Over 50? The CDC Says You Need These 4 Vaccines.”

Disclosure: The information you read here is always objective. However, we sometimes receive compensation when you click links within our stories.

The Latest and Greatest Deals from Around the Web

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Every hour we update this list of the latest and greatest deals from around the web. To have this list, along with our Emmy Award winning news, analysis, and advice delivered daily to your inbox, sign up for our free newsletter.

Last Updated: Saturday 3:00 PM EST.

Categories


Clothing & Accessories (21)

Loungewear at 32 Degrees from $6

Gap Factory Sale: Up to 75% off + extra 10% off + free shipping w/ $50

Columbia Cold Weather Gear: Up to 50% off + free shipping

Uniqlo Men's Light Padded Parka for $20 + free shipping w/ $99

Uniqlo Lunar New Year Deals: over 150 items discounted + free shipping w/ $99

Uniqlo Men's Dress Shirts: Buy 2 or more, get $10 off each + free shipping w/ $99

Uniqlo Men's Ultra Light Down Jacket for $40 + free shipping w/ $99

Uniqlo Men's Distressed Slim-Fit Jeans for $15 + free shipping w/ $99

Under Armour Women's Velocity Twist Hoodie and Storm Fleece Hoodie Bundle for $40 + $5.95 s&h

Under Armour Men's UA Tech 1/2 Zip Pullover for $20 + $5.95 s&h

NFL Shop Clearance Sale: Up to 75% off + free shipping

Canada Weather Gear Boy's Parka System Jacket for $35 + $5.95 s&h

Spyder Girl's Timeless Synthetic Full Zip Jacket for $60 + free shipping

Steve Madden Women's Beaded Anorak Jacket for $30 + $5.95 s&h

Ray-Ban RB4162 Aviator Sunglasses for $60 + free shipping

Winchester Thermal Socks 3-Pack for $5 + $1.49 s&h

New Balance Men's 500 Classic Shoes for $33 + free shipping

Reebok Women's Club C 85 Shoes for $29 + free shipping

Reebok Men's Flashfilm Train 2 Shoes for $34 + free shipping

Reebok Classics Women's Small Logo Low-Impact Bra for $9 + free shipping

Polo Ralph Lauren Men's Water-Repellent Softshell Jacket for $58 + free shipping

Computers (3)

VideoProc for PC and Mac for free + email delivery

Monoprice Essentials 6.6-Foot USB-C to USB-C 3.1 Cable for $3 + free shipping

HP 15-dw3025od Tiger Lake i5 15.6" Laptop for $519 + free shipping

Electronics (5)

Onkyo 5.1-Channel Home Theater System for $319 + free shipping

Klipsch R-26FA Dolby Atmos Speaker Bundle for $999 + free shipping

Apexel 4K HD 5-in-1 Cell Phone Camera Lens Kit for $35 + free shipping

Monoprice 1-Foot Slim High Speed 4K HDMI Cable 3-Pack for $4 + free shipping

Lowepro QuadGuard TX Case for $15 + free shipping

Gaming & Toys (3)

Star Wars The Black Series Supreme Leader Kylo Ren Force FX Elite Lightsaber for $150 + free shipping

Prison Architect for PC or Mac for free

Sid Meier's Civilization Sale at Green Man Gaming: Up to 80% off

Health & Beauty (2)

Xyzal Allergy 24HR: free sample

Xyzal Allergy 24HR: free sample

Spring is just around the corner bringing with it a full arsenal of allergy triggers. Xyzal offers a free sample of its 24-hour medication to help the cause. Fill out the form to get your sample. Shop Now

Tips

  • Use as directed.
  • Limit one order per household.

Features

  • purports to relieve sneezing; itchy, watery eyes; runny nose; itchy nose and throat for 24 hours

ColourPop Sale: Up to 75% off + $5.99 s&h

Home & Garden (16)

Petco End of Season Sale: Up to 65% off + free shipping w/ $35

Petco End of Season Sale: Up to 65% off + free shipping w/ $35

Tigers, and lions, and bears, oh my! Well, maybe your pets are not that exotic, but cats, dogs, fish, and your other pets have needs too; and you can get what you need at Petco during their End of Season Sale. Shop Now at Petco

Tips

  • Up to 65% off clearance.
  • Buy 1, get 1 50% off on select new pet essentials.
  • Buy 2, get 1 free WholeHearted cat treats.
  • Up to 50% off select cold weather apparel and beds.
  • Opt for store pickup to dodge the $5.99 shipping fee, or get free shipping on orders of $35 or more.

Dig Defence Animal Barrier Multipacks at Petco from $33 + free shipping w/ $35

Leiston Leather Dual Power Recliner for $599 + $109 s&h

Reddy Convertible Pet Carrier and Mat for $40 + free shipping

Tommy Hilfiger Modern American Cotton Mix and Match Bath Towel Collection from $4 + free shipping w/ $25

Cuisinart 10-Piece Ceramic-Coated Cutlery Set for $15 + free shipping w/ $25

Instant Pot Instant Ace Plus Cooking & Beverage Blender for $90 + free shipping

Dr. Oz Good Life Say Goodnight Side Sleeper Memory Foam Pillow for $42 + free shipping

Longchamp Cristal D'Arques Crystal Glass 4-Piece Sets for $13 + free shipping w/ $25

Folding Floor Massage Lazy Chair for $108 + free shipping

Nearly Natural 5-Foot Golden Cane Palm Tree for $66 + free shipping

5-Tier Vertical Raised Garden Bed for $80 + free shipping

Lacoste Legend Supima Cotton Towels and Washcloths from $7 + free shipping w/ $25

Monroe II Upholstered Wingback Queen Bed for $279 + shipping varies

Martha Stewart Collection Reversible Towels from $3 + free shipping w/ $25

Martha Stewart Collection Reversible Towels from $3 + free shipping w/ $25

Save on a selection of bath towels, hand towels, & washcloths from the Martha Stewart Collection, with prices starting from $3 and savings of up to $11 off. Shop Now at Macy’s

Tips

  • Washcloths for $2.99 ($7 off)
  • Hand Towels for $3.99 ($8 off)
  • Bath Towels for $4.99 ($11 off)
  • Available in several colors (Biscay Blue pictured).
  • Opt for in-store pickup to avoid the $10.95 shipping charge, otherwise orders of $25 or more bag free shipping.

Features

  • 100% cotton
  • reverses to a solid terry cloth

International Silver 51-Piece Flatware Set for $30 + free shipping

Office & Supplies (1)

School Supplies at Office Depot: Up to 70% off + free next day shipping w/ $60

Disclosure: The information you read here is always objective. However, we sometimes receive compensation when you click links within our stories.

The Latest and Greatest Deals from Around the Web

Photo by Zhu Difeng / Shutterstock.com

Every hour we update this list of the latest and greatest deals from around the web. To have this list, along with our Emmy Award winning news, analysis, and advice delivered daily to your inbox, sign up for our free newsletter.

Last Updated: Saturday 3:00 PM EST.

Categories


Clothing & Accessories (21)

Loungewear at 32 Degrees from $6

Gap Factory Sale: Up to 75% off + extra 10% off + free shipping w/ $50

Columbia Cold Weather Gear: Up to 50% off + free shipping

Uniqlo Men's Light Padded Parka for $20 + free shipping w/ $99

Uniqlo Lunar New Year Deals: over 150 items discounted + free shipping w/ $99

Uniqlo Men's Dress Shirts: Buy 2 or more, get $10 off each + free shipping w/ $99

Uniqlo Men's Ultra Light Down Jacket for $40 + free shipping w/ $99

Uniqlo Men's Distressed Slim-Fit Jeans for $15 + free shipping w/ $99

Under Armour Women's Velocity Twist Hoodie and Storm Fleece Hoodie Bundle for $40 + $5.95 s&h

Under Armour Men's UA Tech 1/2 Zip Pullover for $20 + $5.95 s&h

NFL Shop Clearance Sale: Up to 75% off + free shipping

Canada Weather Gear Boy's Parka System Jacket for $35 + $5.95 s&h

Spyder Girl's Timeless Synthetic Full Zip Jacket for $60 + free shipping

Steve Madden Women's Beaded Anorak Jacket for $30 + $5.95 s&h

Ray-Ban RB4162 Aviator Sunglasses for $60 + free shipping

Winchester Thermal Socks 3-Pack for $5 + $1.49 s&h

New Balance Men's 500 Classic Shoes for $33 + free shipping

Reebok Women's Club C 85 Shoes for $29 + free shipping

Reebok Men's Flashfilm Train 2 Shoes for $34 + free shipping

Reebok Classics Women's Small Logo Low-Impact Bra for $9 + free shipping

Polo Ralph Lauren Men's Water-Repellent Softshell Jacket for $58 + free shipping

Computers (3)

VideoProc for PC and Mac for free + email delivery

Monoprice Essentials 6.6-Foot USB-C to USB-C 3.1 Cable for $3 + free shipping

HP 15-dw3025od Tiger Lake i5 15.6" Laptop for $519 + free shipping

Electronics (5)

Onkyo 5.1-Channel Home Theater System for $319 + free shipping

Klipsch R-26FA Dolby Atmos Speaker Bundle for $999 + free shipping

Apexel 4K HD 5-in-1 Cell Phone Camera Lens Kit for $35 + free shipping

Monoprice 1-Foot Slim High Speed 4K HDMI Cable 3-Pack for $4 + free shipping

Lowepro QuadGuard TX Case for $15 + free shipping

Gaming & Toys (3)

Star Wars The Black Series Supreme Leader Kylo Ren Force FX Elite Lightsaber for $150 + free shipping

Prison Architect for PC or Mac for free

Sid Meier's Civilization Sale at Green Man Gaming: Up to 80% off

Health & Beauty (2)

Xyzal Allergy 24HR: free sample

Xyzal Allergy 24HR: free sample

Spring is just around the corner bringing with it a full arsenal of allergy triggers. Xyzal offers a free sample of its 24-hour medication to help the cause. Fill out the form to get your sample. Shop Now

Tips

  • Use as directed.
  • Limit one order per household.

Features

  • purports to relieve sneezing; itchy, watery eyes; runny nose; itchy nose and throat for 24 hours

ColourPop Sale: Up to 75% off + $5.99 s&h

Home & Garden (16)

Petco End of Season Sale: Up to 65% off + free shipping w/ $35

Petco End of Season Sale: Up to 65% off + free shipping w/ $35

Tigers, and lions, and bears, oh my! Well, maybe your pets are not that exotic, but cats, dogs, fish, and your other pets have needs too; and you can get what you need at Petco during their End of Season Sale. Shop Now at Petco

Tips

  • Up to 65% off clearance.
  • Buy 1, get 1 50% off on select new pet essentials.
  • Buy 2, get 1 free WholeHearted cat treats.
  • Up to 50% off select cold weather apparel and beds.
  • Opt for store pickup to dodge the $5.99 shipping fee, or get free shipping on orders of $35 or more.

Dig Defence Animal Barrier Multipacks at Petco from $33 + free shipping w/ $35

Leiston Leather Dual Power Recliner for $599 + $109 s&h

Reddy Convertible Pet Carrier and Mat for $40 + free shipping

Tommy Hilfiger Modern American Cotton Mix and Match Bath Towel Collection from $4 + free shipping w/ $25

Cuisinart 10-Piece Ceramic-Coated Cutlery Set for $15 + free shipping w/ $25

Instant Pot Instant Ace Plus Cooking & Beverage Blender for $90 + free shipping

Dr. Oz Good Life Say Goodnight Side Sleeper Memory Foam Pillow for $42 + free shipping

Longchamp Cristal D'Arques Crystal Glass 4-Piece Sets for $13 + free shipping w/ $25

Folding Floor Massage Lazy Chair for $108 + free shipping

Nearly Natural 5-Foot Golden Cane Palm Tree for $66 + free shipping

5-Tier Vertical Raised Garden Bed for $80 + free shipping

Lacoste Legend Supima Cotton Towels and Washcloths from $7 + free shipping w/ $25

Monroe II Upholstered Wingback Queen Bed for $279 + shipping varies

Martha Stewart Collection Reversible Towels from $3 + free shipping w/ $25

Martha Stewart Collection Reversible Towels from $3 + free shipping w/ $25

Save on a selection of bath towels, hand towels, & washcloths from the Martha Stewart Collection, with prices starting from $3 and savings of up to $11 off. Shop Now at Macy’s

Tips

  • Washcloths for $2.99 ($7 off)
  • Hand Towels for $3.99 ($8 off)
  • Bath Towels for $4.99 ($11 off)
  • Available in several colors (Biscay Blue pictured).
  • Opt for in-store pickup to avoid the $10.95 shipping charge, otherwise orders of $25 or more bag free shipping.

Features

  • 100% cotton
  • reverses to a solid terry cloth

International Silver 51-Piece Flatware Set for $30 + free shipping

Office & Supplies (1)

School Supplies at Office Depot: Up to 70% off + free next day shipping w/ $60

Disclosure: The information you read here is always objective. However, we sometimes receive compensation when you click links within our stories.

6 Free Ways to Keep Thieves Away From Your Home

home burglary protection

If you’re like millions of Americans, you’ll be hitting the road sometime before summer ends. Whether you plan a two-week road trip or a Labor Day weekend getaway, thieves may be looking forward to your departure.

How secure is your castle?

If you are unsure, there is some good news: There are several easy, no-tech ways to improve your home’s security for free — or next to nothing.

Following are our favorites:
Continue reading “6 Free Ways to Keep Thieves Away From Your Home”

8 Cheap Ways to Keep Your Car Running Cool in the Summer Heat

With summer right around the corner, you’re probably already thinking about how to keep your home cool. But have you considered that your car also needs protection from the heat?

Most vehicles aren’t designed for extreme temperatures. They need special care when the mercury rises, particularly during summer road trips.

Driving an overheated vehicle can cause expensive damage. Running too hot can degrade engine oil, ruin gasket seals and seriously damage the engine.

Ensure a carefree summer on America’s highways and byways by paying attention to these eight things:

Continue reading “8 Cheap Ways to Keep Your Car Running Cool in the Summer Heat”

How to Pay Less for a Wedding Dress

save on wedding dresses

First comes love, then comes marriage. Then comes the mountain of wedding debt you’ll have to pay.

Last year, couples spent an average of $33,931 on weddings and nuptial-related events, according to TheKnot.com. While the venues, engagement ring and even entertainment can cost thousands of dollars, the wardrobe isn’t far down the list of top expenses. The average cost of the dress: $1,631.

If you’re looking to dress for less while still wearing a spectacular gown, there are plenty of options online. They include:
Continue reading “How to Pay Less for a Wedding Dress”

8 Times When You’re Right to Be a Cheapskate

save money

Nobody wants to be labeled a cheapskate. But sometimes, it makes good financial sense to purchase a cheaper option if you can.

A high price tag doesn’t necessarily make something better. Often, low-cost items will serve your needs just as well. Or, the higher-quality option might not be worth the extra money.

Other times, there’s little or no difference in quality between the priciest and cheapest versions of products. Here are eight times when it’s smart to be cheap.

Tiny Houses and Beyond: Alternatives to Traditional Homes

tiny home

Not content to live in traditional homes, some adventurous people prefer to reside in tents, trees, boats, steel boxes or even underground dwellings.

You may be looking for affordable housing, or you may want to live in a home that’s in harmony with nature. Perhaps you want a whimsical design that reflects your personality. Whatever your motivation, there’s no reason to settle for a standard home.

What follows are several alternatives that may appeal to you.

Cats or Dogs: Which Are More Expensive?

cost of dogs and cats

I love my dog, but whoever coined the phrase, “You can’t put a price on love” probably wasn’t a pet owner.

I’ve run the numbers, and between food, treats, toys, dog park memberships, vet bills and medicine, my large dog has cost me nearly $1,000 in a single year.

How much dog and cat owners spend on their four-legged family members varies widely. Several years ago, the ASPCA conducted a study on the average cost of owning a dog or a cat. It found that Continue reading “Cats or Dogs: Which Are More Expensive?”

The Complete Guide to Getting the Best Possible Deal on Car Insurance

auto insurance

When it comes to insurance, it’s a tug of war. You need to insure yourself against financial calamity. The insurance industry, on the other hand, wants you to insure against even the slightest inconvenience, because that’s how insurers make the most money.

But if you buy enough insurance to protect against inconvenience rather than calamity, you’ll create a calamity trying to pay for all your insurance.

This step-by-step guide is about paying as little as possible for car insurance, while still maintaining enough coverage. Many of the things you’ll learn here will also apply to other insurance policies you’ll encounter, from home and health to life.

I promise not to bore you to death as we go through it. Let’s get started… Continue reading “The Complete Guide to Getting the Best Possible Deal on Car Insurance”