Focusing on Common Senior Health Concerns

As your senior ages, their body will continuously go through changes and will become more vulnerable. In order to keep your elderly family member feeling well and healthy, it’s important to understand some of the most common health issues that impact older people. Some common health concerns for seniors include:

Appetite issues

Many seniors find that they simply aren’t as hungry as they used to be, particularly if they live alone. They may no longer get joy out of mealtime like they used to when they were cooking for a spouse and children. They may also have difficulty getting to the grocery store to buy fresh ingredients for meals. Good senior health is very much dependent on proper nutrition, so verify that your elderly family member is getting the essentials they need to stay well. If they struggle to get to the store and cook meals, consider hiring a home care professional to come in and assist several days per week.

Issues with balance

As your loved one ages, they may have a harder time controlling their body. Climbing stairs, moving from the bathroom to the bedroom, and getting up from a chair can become significantly more difficult. Consider installing grab bars in your senior’s bedroom, and placing benches throughout the house so that they can sit and take a rest should the need arise.

Alzheimer’s disease

Different from normal aging, Alzheimer’s disease has a devastating impact on the senior and the rest of the family. For elderly individuals struggling with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other memory-related conditions, proper dementia care is essential; this may be in an assisted living facility or at home. 

Depression

Those who are focused on the care of elderly family members should also understand that seniors could face a host of mental problems in addition to physical ailments. Depression is common in people over the age of 65, and requires proper treatment. If you suspect that your elderly loved one is dealing with depression, seek help from a medical professional. 

Understanding the issues that may impact your senior allows you to provide more effective care for this family member, thus preserving both their physical and mental wellbeing. If you’re in need of guidance about how to care for your elderly loved one most effectively, seek help from a medical professional.