15. Ignoring Pain or New Symptoms

Dismissing new aches, pains, or unusual symptoms as simply “getting older” can be risky, as these changes may indicate treatable medical conditions. Promptly reporting persistent discomfort, sudden weakness, or any unusual changes to a healthcare provider can lead to early diagnosis and more effective treatment.
Ignoring symptoms could delay care for issues such as infections, arthritis, or even heart problems. It’s important to listen to your body and seek professional advice. For more information on recognizing and managing pain in older adults, consult the NIH resource at Pain in Older Adults.