10 Common Health Challenges People Face Over Age 60

Thriving Beyond 60: 10 Common Health Challenges & Natural Flexitarian Remedies That Work

As someone who just turned 61 not long ago, I’ve learned something important: aging doesn't mean falling apart—it means showing up for ourselves in new ways. Yes, our bodies change. Yes, we might face some annoying health challenges. But I promise you—it doesn’t have to be a downhill ride.

In fact, I feel better in many ways now than I did in my 40s and 50s. And it’s not because I’ve found a magical pill or followed some extreme program—it’s because I started tuning in, eating more intentionally, moving my body differently, and leaning into a mostly plant-based flexitarian lifestyle that feels right for me.

If you're over 60 (or approaching it), and wondering how to manage the little aches, fatigue, or “what’s going on with my digestion?” moments—this post is for you. Here are the 10 most common health challenges I’ve seen and experienced, and some natural, real-life remedies that have worked for me and others walking this same path.

1. Joint Pain & Inflammation

This one hit me around my late 50s. Morning stiffness in the knees, and after long walks or hikes—my hips would talk back.

What’s helped:

• I started adding turmeric and black pepper to my food daily (sometimes I sip it in tea).

• Omega-3s from flaxseed and chia go into my smoothies or sprinkled on salads.

• And honestly, just gentle daily movement—stretching, walking, even slow dancing in the kitchen—makes a huge difference.

2. Digestive Woes (Bloating, Constipation, Reflux)

Let’s be real—digestion can get weird after 60. Some days I used to feel fine, and others… everything felt off.

What’s helped:

• Warm lemon water with a bit of grated ginger first thing in the morning

• More fermented foods (I’ve grown to love sauerkraut and coconut yogurt)

• And fiber—chia seeds, leafy greens, oats, and fresh fruits keep things moving naturally

3. Fatigue & Low Energy

There were days I felt foggy and slow, even after a full night’s sleep. I knew it wasn’t just age—it was about how I was fueling myself.

What’s helped:

• Plant-based iron from lentils and spinach (paired with vitamin C)

• A little maca or spirulina in my smoothie

• And consistent hydration—sometimes that mid-day crash was really dehydration

4. Weight Gain & Slower Metabolism

No surprise here—our metabolism naturally slows down. But that doesn’t mean we’re stuck.

What’s helped:

• I now build my meals around plant protein (tempeh, tofu, beans, seeds)

• I cut down on nighttime snacking and sugar

• I strength train with light weights or resistance bands 2–3 times a week

5. Brain Fog & Memory Slips

Let’s just say I used to walk into a room and forget why I was there. 😂

What’s helped:

• Daily handful of walnuts and blueberries

• Staying mentally active—learning new things, playing word games, reading

• Eating more greens and colorful fruits

6. Trouble Sleeping

Falling asleep used to be easy… but staying asleep became the real challenge.

What’s helped:

• Cutting screen time at night and dimming the lights after dinner

• Chamomile or golden milk before bed

• Magnesium from food (spinach, seeds, bananas) or a light supplement

7. High Blood Pressure

Mine was creeping up in my early 60s. Not dangerously high, but high enough to get my attention.

What’s helped:

• More arugula, beets, and other nitrate-rich veggies

• Daily walks, even short ones

• Cutting way back on processed foods and sodium

8. High Cholesterol

My husband actually saw amazing results just from shifting to a high plant-based flex diet—he went off cholesterol meds within months.

What’s helped:

• Oats, apples, lentils, and ground flax

• More avocado, less dairy

• Cooking with olive oil and avoiding fried food

9. Bone Health & Osteoporosis Risk

This one is especially important for women our age.

What’s helped:

• Calcium-rich foods like tofu, tahini, almonds, collards, and fortified plant milk

• Sunshine for vitamin D

• Walking, light resistance, or even dancing for weight-bearing activity

10. Mood Swings & Mild Depression

There are times we all feel a little down or disconnected, especially during big life transitions. I’ve been there.

What’s helped:

• Getting outside every day, even for 10 minutes

• Eating mood-lifting foods like bananas, leafy greens, and dark chocolate

• Practicing daily prayer, journaling, or meditation

Final Thoughts: It’s Not About Perfection. It’s About Progress.

If you're reading this and thinking, "That's a lot to change," I get it. But here’s the truth: you don’t have to do it all at once.Start with one or two things. Be gentle with yourself. Stay curious. And trust your body—it’s wiser than you think.

What matters most is consistency, compassion, and the desire to feel good—not just for now, but for the long run.

📥 Download the Free PDF

Want to keep this guide handy? Download your free copy of Healthy Living After 60: Top 10 Health Challenges & Natural Remedies That Work and refer to it anytime you need a little motivation or support on your wellness journey.👉 Click here to download the PDF

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and reflects my personal experience. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

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