When it comes to taking care of older adults, many times we may face frustration or find it difficult to communicate with them. After all, we might not be familiar with the problems they face, which can lead to misunderstandings and even disagreements. Read on to find out what are the common problems the elderly face so that you can better take care of their needs.
Mobility and Balancing Issues
Did you know? Research has shown that roughly 35% of those aged above 65 fall in their homes at least once a year. This statistic goes to show how prone they might be to falling due to weakened balancing muscles and other similar conditions. As such, they might need more help with walking and balancing, and might not be able to move at the same speed as before for safety reasons.
Concerns in Memory Abilities
Memory concerns are an extremely common topic among older adults and their families. After all, memory-related conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease have no official direct cure and have also been linked to a deterioration in thinking abilities. As such, memory concerns sometimes cause anxiety in older adults, which makes them less willing to get checked or evaluated. This may also stem from the fact that they believe such conditions are untreatable. However, while there may not be an official cure, much can be done to keep such conditions in control and prevent them from deteriorating.
When one develops memory-related conditions, timely intervention and proper care is the most critical element in keeping the condition in control. Programs like SHINE® Memory Care are ideal for those with memory-related conditions.
Urinary Incontinence
In older adults, chronic difficulties are common, making it hard for them to control their bladder. Due to the nature of the condition, it comes as no surprise that some older adults may find the situation embarrassing and even cause them to restrict their social interactions or physical activities. Moreover, it can even eventually be linked to depression. As such, it is important to recognize the troubles they face and work on a solution to prevent the problem from further snowballing into something more serious.
Depression
Being a problem that is easily missed throughout every age group, depression remains a very real cause of concern. Depression can occur to anyone even if they do not seem to display any signs, although it is more common in people that are socially isolated or struggling with illnesses.
One of the more important signs of dementia to look out for is “anhedonia”, which is a phenomenon where one stops doing the activities that used to bring them pleasure. If you spot such an occurrence, it is important to get help before the condition deteriorates further.
Losing Independence
Many older adults want to be independent and have the freedom to do what they choose to do, even if they face limitations in their daily activities. In such scenarios, independent living programs might just be ideal for them. In such programs, residents are able to live independently yet have access to facilities and programs that are optimized for the safety and wellbeing of older adults.
