Older Adults and Complementary Health Approaches

Older Adults and Complementary Health Approaches

May is Older Americans Month—a good time to let you know about NCCIH’s resources on complementary approaches for several health conditions of concern to older people. Osteoarthritis is common among older adults. Researchers have studied a variety of complementary approaches for osteoarthritis, including natural products, such as glucosamine and chondroitin, and mind and body practices, such as acupuncture and tai chi. Find out what the science says in our osteoarthritis fact sheet. The risk of hypertension (high blood pressure) increases as people grow older. Some complementary health approaches have shown promise as elements of a program of lifestyle change to help lower blood pressure. Find out more at our hypertension webpage. Researchers have investigated whether dietary supplements can help prevent age-related eye conditions. No supplement has been found to reduce the risk of cataracts or glaucoma, but supplements containing antioxidant vitamins and zinc may slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration. Find out more on our eye conditions webpage. Researchers are also exploring complementary approaches for dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. However, currently there is no strong evidence that any complementary health approach can prevent cognitive impairment. Learn more from our webpage on Alzheimer’s disease. Find out more