What Are the Most Common Diseases in Older Adults?

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The most common diseases in older age are cardiovascular diseases (25–30%), type 2 diabetes (15–20%), COPD (8–10%), cancer (60% of all diagnoses in people 65+), dementia (10% of those 65+, 30–40% of those 85+), and osteoarthritis (25% of those 65+).

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Diseases That Increase With Age

As we grow older, the risk of developing both physical and cognitive illnesses rises. Many of these are known as widespread or “folk diseases” because they affect a large share of the population. Below we present the most common diseases among older adults and how prevalent they are in Sweden.

Cardiovascular Diseases

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in Sweden. Among people over 65, around 25–30% are affected by some form of cardiovascular disease, most commonly heart attack, heart failure, and stroke [1]. These conditions are often caused by atherosclerosis, high blood pressure, or elevated cholesterol. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, physical inactivity, and an unhealthy diet play a major role. Regular monitoring of blood pressure and cholesterol can reduce the risk of severe complications.

Type 2 Diabetes

The risk of type 2 diabetes increases with age, with a prevalence of around 15–20% among people over 65, compared to about 6% in the general population [2]. Diabetes increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, kidney failure, vision problems, and nerve damage. The disease often develops slowly and may be symptom-free for years. With proper diet, regular exercise, and early medical treatment, complications can often be prevented or delayed.

COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)

COPD is a progressive lung disease that reduces lung function over time. It affects about 8–10% of those over 65 in Sweden [3]. The main cause is smoking, but passive smoking and air pollution can also contribute. Common symptoms include persistent coughing, phlegm, and shortness of breath. While COPD cannot be cured, treatments and rehabilitation can slow the progression and improve quality of life.

Cancer

The risk of cancer increases with age, and over 60% of all cancer diagnoses in Sweden occur in people over 65 [4]. The most common types in older adults are prostate cancer, breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and lung cancer. Causes are both genetic and lifestyle-related, with tobacco use, obesity, and alcohol contributing to increased risk. Screening programs, such as mammography and colorectal cancer screening, have proven effective for early detection.

Dementia

Dementia is a rapidly growing public health issue. In Sweden, about 10% of all people over 65 live with dementia. Among those over 85, the figure is as high as 30–40% [5]. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type, followed by vascular dementia. Dementia affects memory, language, orientation, and the ability to manage daily tasks. While it cannot be cured, medication and support services can relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.

Osteoarthritis and Other Joint Diseases

Osteoarthritis is the most common joint disease in Sweden. Around 25% of people over 65 have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis [6]. The disease breaks down the cartilage in joints, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility—most often in hips, knees, and hands. Genetics and obesity also increase the risk. Exercise, physiotherapy, and pain-relieving medication are key parts of treatment, and in severe cases, joint replacement surgery may be necessary.

Safety alarm with automatic fall alarm can increase safety for people with an increased risk of falling

Sensorem’s personal alarm is an example of a technical aid specially developed for people who have an increased risk of falling. The personal alarm can automatically trigger the alarm in the event of a fall and then call relatives using the watch’s built-in speakerphone with two-way communication. The personal alarm works outdoors and has built-in GPS positioning so that relatives can see the user’s position on a map in the Sensorem app.