Preparing for the Challenges That Come with Aging

What is Sjögren’s?

Sjögren’s is an autoimmune disease affecting the lives of up to 4 million Americans. This systemic disease affects the entire body with symptoms of extensive dryness in the eyes and mouth, and will result in fatal damages to the tissues, can cause neurological problems as well as lung disease and cancer.

New Research Linking Sjögren’s to Aging

The Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation recently announced a partial discovery as to why age is a risk factor for Sjögren’s, noting that the median age is 52 and women are nine times more likely than men to develop the disease.

The study found that specific white blood cells are associated with aging infiltrates the salivary glands in older mice, triggering inflammation and disrupting immune tolerance. This is similar to the disease progression observed in humans, particularly women aged 52, who are more susceptible.

 “The aging process drives the inflammation in the glands” (OMFR, 2024). This is crucial information to understand when preparing for the challenges that come with aging.

Preparing for the Unexpected

Aging is inevitable and unavoidable. A part of growing older is ensuring that your loved ones are taken care of before you become terminally ill, incapacitated, or pass away.

Get started on estate or life planning with an experienced professional who can guide you through and help you understand the process. Oklahoma attorney, Kevin L. Miller, PC has over 35 years of experience in helping all kinds of individuals and families.

He says, “I firmly believe the greatest gift a person may pass on to his or her family or loved ones is a well thought out and easy to understand estate plan. It can make a world of difference and make matters easier after a loved has passed.”

Working with Kevin L. Miller, PC means you receive personalized, professional service in a trusted, welcoming environment. Kevin provides a tailored experience with top-notch attention to detail. Reach out to Oklahoma attorney, Kevin L. Miller, PC to get started on your estate or life planning. Call (405) 443-5100 today.

Reference: OMFR. (2024, June 13) Re: OMFR Study ties autoimmune disease to aging. https://omrf.org/2024/06/13/omrf-study-ties-autoimmune-disease-to-aging