Final answer:
Arthritis is the most common chronic health condition in late adulthood, with hypertension, heart disease, and cancer also being prevalent. Lifestyle choices significantly affect the risk of developing many chronic diseases, indicating preventability through healthy behaviors.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most common chronic health condition among people in late adulthood is arthritis. This condition affects approximately 50% of individuals over sixty-five years old, leading to stiff and painful joints. Other prevalent conditions include hypertension, heart disease, and cancer. It is notable that while medical advancements have helped reduce the disabling effects of chronic diseases, issues such as cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease become more common with increasing age. Moreover, lifestyle choices play a significant role in the prevention of many chronic noninfectious diseases, implying that actions like regular exercise and healthy eating can mitigate the risk.