As Seniors Age, Issues Arise

By Mary Alice Miller
The holiday season is a joyous time to gather with family and friends. It is the perfect time to check in on seniors in your network.
Aging is associated with changes in dynamic biological, physiological, environmental, psychological, behavioral, and social processes, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Advancing age is the major risk factor for a number of chronic diseases in humans.
NIH states it is not always clear whether an aging parent or relative needs help. Sometimes, a person will recognize that they need help and request it, or an emergency or sudden illness will make it clear. Others may not want to cause worry or admit they’re struggling.
If you become aware of the signs that a loved one needs help, you will be better prepared to provide support for their safety and well-being.
The best way to know what someone needs is to ask them directly. But a phone call, email, or text message is not always the best way to tell whether an older person needs help.
Some signs that indicate someone needs extra support may include: changes at home; mental health concerns; other general health issues; and memory issues.
If you don’t live close to an older family member or see them often, it may be difficult to notice if the person needs help. The NIH suggests getting the person’s permission to contact people who see them regularly – neighbors, friends, doctors, or local relatives – and ask them to call you with any concerns.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people are living longer, and by 2030, about one in five Americans will be aged 65 years and older. Older adults are more likely to experience multiple chronic diseases (such as coronary heart disease, stroke, diabetes, cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, arthritis, kidney disease, Alzheimer’s or other dementia), also known as co-morbidities, and greater functional limitations. Memory loss can complicate the management of these diseases.
The CDC calls chronic diseases and cognitive decline an emerging public health issue. Maintaining a lifestyle with healthy behaviors and managing chronic conditions can help people be as healthy and independent for as long as possible.
The CDC recommends several methods to maintain brain health with healthy behaviors: quit smoking, maintain a healthy blood pressure level, be physically active, maintain a healthy weight, get enough sleep, manage blood sugar, and stay engaged in their local community.
“There are links between the social world (intimate partnerships, social networks, social participation) and other domains of health,” said Dr. Linda Waite, professor of sociology at the University of Chicago and head of the National Social Life and Aging Project on a recent WNYC Science Friday program. “Humans are designed to be social creatures. The people you are connected to are the ones who will bring you chicken soup if you have a cold, or pick up a prescription for you or come over. If marriage or intimate partnership is a safe haven it reduces stress and makes you feel supported. For people with partners at older ages sexual activity is very common and a stress reducer, exercise, a source of bonding.”
She added, “People who volunteer of attend religious services have better health outcomes.”
The National Social Life and Aging Project found that “Social networks, social participation, social relationships, and sexuality affect and are affected by physical health and functioning, emotional well-being, sensory function, and cognition,” said Dr. Waite.
Emergency preparedness for natural disasters, such as hurricanes, tornadoes, blizzards, and extreme heat and cold that may force you to evacuate your home or shelter-in-place at short notice is also important for older adults, according to the CDC. Seniors may have mobility problems, or chronic health conditions, or you may not have any family or friends nearby to support you. Support services that are usually available, such as help from caregivers or in-home health care and meal delivery services, may be unavailable for a period of time. In addition, older adults may experience challenges with advanced age, such as hearing or vision problems or cognitive impairment, which may make it difficult to access, understand, and respond to emergency instructions.

The CDC recommends preparing for emergencies by creating a plan, reviewing or practicing it regularly, and keeping an emergency supply kit.
There may come a time when the senior in your life might need you to become a caretaker. Caregiving involves helping another person with everyday activities and tasks and providing emotional support and companionship. Many caregivers are family members, friends, or neighbors. Also, according to the NIH, many older adults are caregivers for their grandchildren or other young relatives. In the United States, more than 2.7 million children are currently being raised by older family members.
The CDC states the need for caregivers is growing along with the aging of the US population. The number of caregivers increased from 43.5 million in 2015 to about 53 million in 2020, or more than 1 in 5 Americans.
The NIH recommends finding out as much as you can about the person’s medical situation, determining where to get help, and getting training if needed.
There are times when a caretaker may experience caretaker burnout. The CDC found caregiving is also a public health concern because it can lead to physical, emotional, psychological, and financial strain. In addition, the CDC stated caregiving can have a negative financial effect on caregivers.
The National Institute on Aging recommends that all caregivers need a break from time to time. Take a walk, talk with friends, or get some sleep. Eating healthy foods and staying physically active will help you stay healthy. Joining a caregiver support group — either in your community or online — can help you feel less alone and give you a chance to exchange stories and ideas. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from family members or friends. Respite care services (short-term relief for primary caregivers) may also be an option.”
“Seniors should keep younger people in their lives,” said Dr. James McIntosh, a retired psychiatrist. “Treat people well. Those same people may be there to help you as you get older.”