Since time immemorial, the aging phenomenon has been
perceived as a natural but an unstoppable and inevitable way of getting old.
This is so because as we become older, our body cells degenerate and cease to
work properly leading to various diseases and ailments. Currently, there is an
urgent requirement for focusing on this aspect with the global aging population
growing exponentially by the day.
Technological developments and healthcare innovations have
indeed brought a drastic improvement in the quality of life elders can lead and
also increased the life expectancy. So the older adults actually look forward
to the blissful phase of after retirement life post the long and busy career span.
However, they must take sufficient care of their health as the body is more
susceptible to chronic ailments and disabilities in old age.
Common
Geriatric Problems
· Most seniors suffer from one or more chronic
health impairments that need constant medical attention and supervision.
· There is a decline in mental health particularly
in the context of cognition due to aging which makes the elders dependent on
others.
· Many elderly people suffer from malnutrition due
to multiple reasons including lack of awareness, physical limitations to cook
nutritious meals, financial problems and the absence of caretakers.
· There is a greater risk of trips and falls
leading to injuries, fractures and permanent disabilities as old people have
reduced balancing and co-ordination capabilities and sensory impairments like
impaired vision and hearing loss.
· Oral health happens to be one of the major
detriments to senior well-being as seniors are not able to take care of the
teeth properly leading to multiple health issues.
· The diminishing immune system of the elders makes
their bodies prone to various infections and dangerous diseases like HIV and
AIDs.
· Loneliness and isolation is a serious threat in
the life of seniors leading to unhealthy habits including overeating, substance
abuse, over-medication, drug addiction, smoking and excess alcohol consumption.
· Age-related body changes can cause poor bladder
control, constipation and incontinence in
elderly people which can be extremely embarrassing and emotionally
draining.
Tips
for Healthy Aging
· Take
proper care of your skin as it is the largest organ of the body. It must be
protected adequately against extreme temperatures and weather conditions. Use
appropriate clothing and using sunscreen lotions, remain well-hydrated and
follow anti-aging routines regularly.
· Make
exercise a compulsory itinerary as it significantly lowers the risk of several
diseases like cardiac problems, diabetes and stroke and also helps you in
retaining mobility. It is also known to lower stress and anxiety, elevates
moods and improves bone density and muscle strength.
· Pay sufficient attention to your diet and
ensure regular consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole-grain foods,
low-fat dairy products, lean protein and healthy fats. Avoid processed foods
strictly and keep the salt intake to the minimum to avoid surges in blood
pressure.
· Do
not ignore mental health
as it plays a vital role in hassle-free aging. Be happy and calm always and
spend time with family and friends, pursue hobbies and embrace the aging
process gracefully.
· Prevent
a sedentary lifestyle by remaining physically active to the extent possible.
Doing this reduces the onset of chronic ailments and also evades untimely
death. Engage yourself constructively by going for walking, travelling and
participating in voluntary and community activities.
· Reduce
your stress levels by talking to friends, meditating, reading good books,
sleeping well and listening to music.
· Quit
unhealthy habits like smoking and drinking alcohol as these have ill-effects on
your well-being and even cause premature aging.
· Practice
better mindfulness by doing meditation, yoga, colouring and playing
senior-friendly games. That helps in building attention and focus, increasing
memory, improving reaction to stimuli and building better relationships with
fellow human beings.
Senior care at home helps elders in leading a healthy lifestyle
to ensure an enjoyable process and progress of aging!
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