Senior Home Care Providers: Common Aging Issues Experienced by Seniors

Apr 28, 2017 by Robert Myer

The mind and body grow tired and weak as you age, especially when you reach the twilight years. While you can take steps to keep some signs related to aging at bay, you may experience health problems. Senior home care professionals are aware of these problems and do their best to help seniors cope with the strain. Here are some of the common issues seniors face as they age:

1. Declining Health

Many seniors inevitably develop serious health concerns as they age. Their immune systems become weaker and their bodies more tired, which leaves them more vulnerable to illnesses and health problems. Seniors often develop:

• Arthritis and osteoporosis
• Diabetes
• Breathing problems
• Eye problems like macular degeneration, cataracts, and glaucoma
• Parkinson’s disease
• Heart conditions like vascular disease, hypertension, high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, and coronary artery disease.

Most of these problems can only be treated through medication and professional assistance. But senior home care experts can help the elderly cope and adjust with the changes in their life and body.

2. Physical Weakness and Lack of Mobility

The bones, muscles, and tendons grow weaker as seniors age so they’re not as physically fit and able as they once were. They’re more likely to fall and injure themselves, overextend their muscles, or develop sprains. Regular exercise and activity can help seniors keep the worst of the symptoms away. The more active they are, the less weak and frail they feel. Gentle exercises like yoga, tai chi, stretches, etc., can help seniors deal with their declining physical ability. 

3. Mental Issues

Seniors are more likely to develop mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and paranoia. They’re also vulnerable to mental degenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, which can cause memory loss, mood swings, temper, and other such problems. Senior home care experts encourage their charges to stay mentally active by learning new things, interacting with others, and engaging in mental exercises. Social interaction and hobbies can help elders avoid most mental health problems and slow down the progress of Alzheimer’s. Families should also interact with their senior loved ones on a regular basis to help them cope. 

Seniors also have to deal with a slow metabolism, excessive fatigue, and sleeping problems. Experienced senior home care experts can help them understand how to deal with the problems and lead a more comfortable life.