People who are more susceptible to disease, syndromes, injuries and sickness than other adults come under aged, senior citizen or elderly. In general, people above 65 years of age are considered as elderly or old aged.

These elderly people show unique complaints or illness. They are called as geriatric syndromes which includes incontinence, constipation, delirium, falls, frailty, malnutrition, poor outcome and other degenerative changes. These changes can be postponed with the help of physical, mental and medical support.

Most common complaints of elderly

Malnutrition

People with depression, incontinence, decreased cognitive function and functional dependence show poor nutritional status. Poor nutritional status results in lower blood haemoglobin, serum total protein and albumin, and chronic diseases and geriatric syndromes.

Cardiovascular diseases

High blood pressure, coronary heart disease, heart failure are most common.

Diabetes

Diabetes is a serious disease, and type 2 diabetes is the most common form in older adults. It is important to manage diabetes because, over time, it can cause serious health problems like heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, eye problems, and nerve damage that may lead to amputation. Also, people with type 2 diabetes may be at greater risk for cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.

Cognitive degeneration

As we grow, our brain function reduces. Parkinson disease, dementia and Huntington’s disease are caused due to this cognitive degeneration. This is characterised by communication inability, mood changes, poor judgement and memory loss.

Bone degeneration

Elderly are more prone to Osteoarthritis (pain and swelling in joints) and Osteoporosis (brittle bone disease).

Constipation

It is a common complaint and challenge for older adults. The prevalence of constipation increases with age. Rule out that they have constipation and get prescribed a laxative from a physician.

Incontinence

As we age, bladder capacity and contractility reduce with reduced ability to defer voiding once the urge to do so arises.

How to ease them?

As the elderly people are physically and mentally weak, they need very good care and good atmosphere around them.

Family and friends

Basic need of an elderly is to remain connected to family members, friends, and like-minded seniors. This is psychologically beneficial because such connections can minimise issues with depression and loneliness and boost emotional stability.

Observation

Check whether your loved one has difficulty managing basic activities, such as feeding themselves, moving around their home, getting dressed or taking care of their hygiene.

Friendly living space

Confident bathroom which has handrails, raised toilet seat, everything labelled clearly help establish a routine of their choice and good hygiene can ease their lifestyle.

Social atmosphere

A social friendly atmosphere can allow them to meet alike people, have a chit chat, walk and feel secured. This can again promote their mental strength.

Health Screening

Elderly people may need regular health check-ups and support to be healthy, focused. Relaxed care support can reduce morbidity and help them to be less dependent. Now days healthcare providers are willing to service at the doorstep.

Caretakers

When an elderly person is dependent for the routine life, a personal caretaker can be appointed to fulfil their needs.

Geriatric care is an integral part of ageing and its significance is growing day by day with more awareness around.

To reduce discomfort and the hassle of travel for elders, you can get Geriatric Doctor Home Visit and other services like Senior Care Nursing, Elderly Caretaker through Treat at Home. Download our app at Play Store, App Store or just call +9194422 22700 to book services.

Author: Dr. Manasa