SENIOR CITIZEN CARE SERVICES

Old age is a period of physical decline. Even if one does not become sans eyes, sans teeth, sans everything, right away, one does begin to slow down physically. The physical condition depends partly upon hereditary constitution, the manner of living and environmental factors. Vicissitudes of living, faulty diet, malnutrition, infectious, intoxications, gluttony, inadequate rest, emotional stress, overwork, endocrine disorders and environmental conditions like heat and cold are some of the common secondary causes of physical decline.

Mental disorders are very much associated with old age. Older people are susceptible to psychotic depressions. The two major psychotic disorders of older people are senile dementia (associated with cerebral atrophy and degeneration) and psychosis with cerebral arterio sclerosis (associated with either blocking or ruptures in the cerebral arteries). It has been observed that these two disorders account for approximately 80% of the psychotic disorders among older people in the civilized societies.

Decline in mental ability makes them dependent. They no longer have trust in their own ability or judgements but still they want to tighten their grip over the younger ones. They want to get involved in all family matters and business issues. Due to generation gap the youngsters do not pay attention to their suggestion and advice. Instead of developing a sympathetic attitude towards the old, they start asserting their rights and power. This may create a feeling of deprivation of their dignity and importance.

Loss of spouse during old age is another hazard. Death of a spouse creates a feeling of loneliness and isolation. The negligence and indifferent attitude of the family members towards the older people creates more emotional problems.

Most senior citizens who probably live alone suffer due to lack of companionship sometimes exacerbated by lack of mobility due to ill health. Loneliness and isolation are definitely a major concern among elderly  who are above the age of 60. Isolation basically can result in gradual depression and other mental disorders in the elderly. When you try to develop a strong bond with older parents and involve them in your life it could be quite beneficial for all.

In the older age, all body systems show decrements in physiological reserves. Degenerative process starts in this age and complications and sequelae of chronic long-term diseases eg, hypertension and diabetes make their appearance. In the elderly multiple pathologies are often encountered. Common disease conditions found in the elderly are: Parkinson's disease, depression, ischaemic heart disease, chronic obstructive lung disease, tuberculosis and cancer of the lung, osteo-arthritis of various joints, diabetes, hypertension, cataract, hearing loss and so on. 

While suggesting food for the elderly, one should take into account the small amounts of food with minimum sugar and fats but lots of fresh vegetables and fruits taken in small quantities but more frequently. Physical activity and exercise is good at all ages including old age. Psychological problems frequently arise among the elderly. They result from many factors eg, difficulties with memory, loss of hearing, financial difficulties, feeling of insecurity, chronic unrelieved pain, diffuse atrophy of the brain, etc. 

Depression is the commonest of the psychological problems of the aged. Alzheimer's disease, dementia are some other problems often arise out of the ageing process. All old people and not-so-old ones should be encouraged to continue stimulating mental activity with the same vigor as we advise them to continue physical activity.