Older people face a number of challenges that can affect their quality of life. Apart from health problems, these may include mobility issues and social isolation. There are also financial issues and feelings of inadequacy. However, with proper planning, these problems can be addressed and managed in the best way possible.
Physical ability
There are several physical ability problems that senior citizens face. Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are common in the elderly. The wilmacliving.com detailed that about two-thirds of senior citizens need some type of assistance with activities of daily living. Many older adults find this decline difficult to accept, especially as they fear that they will no longer be able to live independently. However, it is important to recognize that despite these physical challenges, aging adults can still maintain dignity and independence.
Social isolation
Social isolation among senior citizens can have many reasons, including the lack of meaningful relationships, age, and chronic health conditions. Many of these factors make seniors lonely, and some people who are isolated may even feel that they have no friends at all. Others may not be as active as they once were and may have limited mobility.
One study looked at the impact of social isolation on elderly well-being. The authors conducted a survey of 150 elderly people and found a strong association between the two. Using a multi-stage sampling technique, the researchers found that almost half of the senior citizens surveyed were at risk for social isolation.
Aging population
There are several problems that senior citizens face. For example, nursing home care is costly and often substandard, and there is an increasing number of cases of elder abuse. Unfortunately, this type of abuse can have serious consequences. There are also a number of organizations that are devoted to helping older citizens. In fact, senior citizen advocacy groups are becoming an increasingly important part of the political process in the United States.
Another common problem that senior citizens face is forgetting to take their prescribed medicines. Because senior citizens take multiple prescriptions for various health conditions, they may forget to take the right pills or dosage. This problem can cause serious health problems and even death. However, there are many ways to ensure medication compliance, such as using an app that reminds people when to take their medication. Alternatively, professional caregivers can help remind older adults to take their medications according to a schedule.
Malnutrition
Malnutrition is a serious health issue facing senior citizens. There are a number of ways to recognize senior citizens who may be suffering from malnutrition. Educating family members and professionals about these issues can help them take action to ensure the wellbeing of their senior loved ones.
Inadequate nutrition can lead to weakened immune systems, low energy levels, and many other health issues. Seniors who are suffering from malnutrition are more likely to have more chronic health problems, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and osteoporosis. However, this condition can be avoided with dietary modifications.
Loneliness
The effects of loneliness in senior citizens are far reaching, ranging from physical to psychological. It has been linked to social isolation, depression, and other conditions, and it has been shown to have serious consequences on the health of the elderly. While COVID-19 has created more social isolation and less socialization in older adults, there are still ways to reduce the effects of loneliness and improve their quality of life.
Senior citizens, just like single adults, are particularly vulnerable to loneliness. Statistics show that nearly one-third of U.S. adults are isolated, and more than half of those individuals are feeling lonely at some point in their lives. The report notes that the numbers of people experiencing loneliness are even higher for women than for men. Those who experience loneliness are three to five years less likely to live than those who do not feel lonely.
More to read: Common Health Conditions in Older Age