Senior Citizens and Health - 3 Areas of Concern For Aging Adults

Older loved ones often have to suffer with a general deterioration of health, which leaves them reliant on others -- at least to some degree. Most injuries among seniors are a result of a handful of causes. If seniors and their families understand the three main causes, they can better prevent injuries.

Motor Skills and Movement

A study published in 2006 examined the reason why so many older adults fall in the bathroom. During the study, researchers discovered that seniors often hit their legs against the outsides of the bathtub, and when sitting, would almost 'fall' into a sitting position, often hitting their backs, hips, and sides. In short, aging loved ones lose the level of control over their movement once their center of gravity is shifted away from its normal position. Walking distances without canes or walkers also leads to a large number of falls.

To help them out and extend their independence, homecare supplies such as a shower chair, support bars, canes and walkers can go a long way. Instead of needing someone to come in, or moving into an assisted living complex, older adults can use the support bars and a shower chair as needed.

These options are far more affordable and don't alter the individuals routine by much. They'll also find a shower chair and support bars easy to use without having to swallow their dignity to ask for help. When out and about, canes and walkers can provide as much or as little support as they need to remain active without worry.

The Onset of Diseases and Conditions

Alzheimer's, diabetes, Parkinson's, and many other diseases and conditions might not be present earlier in life, but with the advancement in age, they can appear and increase in severity very quickly. And, while not much can be done to prevent these things from happening, a careful eye can catch them quickly enough that they can be treated and possibly slow their progression.

Once the condition has shown up, it's often more a matter of controlling their affects. Unfortunately, diabetic testing supplies and medications can be costly and difficult for older patients to remember. There are a few things that can be done to help, however. Try to help them keep their diabetic testing supplies and medications organized and in the same spot. Also, make a checklist they can mark off that stays close by, or use organizers such as divided pill cases that clearly show them whether they've taken their medications or not.

Mental Health

Studies estimate that humans can lose up to 1% of their mental capacity per year starting at the age of 27. Other contributing factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, increased levels of metals in the body, chemicals, and other substances can affect mental ability as well. To slow this loss and keep memories sharp throughout life, brains need constant exercise and stimulation. This could (and should) include a mix of activities such as socializing with others, problem solving, and reading.

It can be a bit difficult for older individuals to become accustomed to using diabetic testing supplies, shower chair, canes, walkers, and other homecare supplies, but the difference these items can make in their lives is huge. And by watching these three main areas of health, these items can be brought in for support before serious injuries occur.

There are many products on the market today that can help ease the minds of both the individual and their family member. Such aids include diabetic testing supplies, shower chair, canes, and walkers. These minor adjustments don't take much, but they can decrease the number of serious injuries and illnesses the elderly often suffer, which takes away their independence.