For humans, physiological and psychological changes occur with aging. When we are caring for the elderly patients, we should deal appropriately with these changes - physiological and psychological condition of the elderly,and also the basic principles of caring for the elderly : PATIENCE AND RESPECT.
PHYSIOLOGICAL CHANGES IN ELDERLY
Physiological functions wane when people are getting old. When we take care of the elderly, we should take heed to these changes. Here are some examples:
Vision - In general, old people have a poorer vision. Some even have cataract or glaucoma. Before starting every health care procedure or examination, always tell them beforehand and ensure they are psychologically prepared.
Hearing - The elderly would have a lessened hearing ability. When you need to talk loudly to them, avoid shouting.
Touch - The peripheral sense of some diabetes and malnutrition patients drop much. So when taking care of them, especially if they have pain due to diseases, never overlook their minor response.
Skin - The layer of subcutaneous fat in the elderly is thinner than young people. Their skin also loses elasticity due to dehydration. When moving the body of the elderly, beware of injuring their skin. Keep them warm during the cold season.
Endocrine - Elderly people easily get tired or even sick due to diminished endocrine function and decreased metabolism. Be patient when dealing with these elderly.
Renal - Owing to decreased functioning of the renal system, old people may have problems such as incontinence, frequent urination, etc. Assist them if they need toileting and, be patient with them.
Musculoskeletal - Obvious changes such as general weakness could easily be seen in this kind of patients. Assist them to move about if necessary. Yet, if the condition is safe while the elderly is able to move by himself/herself, simply let them go ahead. Be patient with their slower motion.
In general, people’s bodily functioning decreased when they get older. Nevertheless, old age is not synonymous with diseases. A majority of old people could still lead a healthy life, whilst some may have heart, lung, liver or intestinal diseases. Whatever health condition the elderly may have, we should give appropriate care, attention and assistance to meet their needs.
PSYCHOLOGICAL CHANGES IN ELDERLY
There are also psychological changes when people are getting old. When caring for them, we need to take care of their mind as well.
General psychological condition - Old people get tired easily. They may have lessened ability to express. Be patient when communicating with them. Let them finish what they want to say.
Self-protection - Elderly people tend to resist strangers and do not trust people. Before starting a health care procedure to them, or even before moving their furniture at home, tell them beforehand what you are going to do. This would avoid un-cooperation when they don’t trust you.
Dignity/discrimination - We often use Old Papa or Old Mama to address elderly people. Before providing health care, we should show respect to them by asking them how to address them such as Mr, Mrs. or Madam. What is more, no matter how old and what gender they are, their privacy should be properly protected and respected.
Death - With the advent of death, old people may experience some emotional changes. Some event like the death of spouse or getting a terminal disease may bring them through a grieving process including: Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, and Acceptance. When dealing with these elderly people and their family members, never take death for granted for old people and adopt an indifferent attitude.
Physicians and geriatric social workers warn that there are a number of danger signs that indicate an elderly person needs extra help or a change in living arrangement. Any marked change in personality or behavior should be heeded. However, no change in lifestyle should be made without discussions with the elderly person, other family members, and doctors or other health professionals.
Danger Signals
o Sudden weight loss could be an indication that the elderly person is simply not eating or not preparing foods.
o Failure to take medication or over-dosing may indicate confusion, forgetfulness, or a misunderstanding of the doctor's instructions.
o Burns or injury marks may indicate physical problems involving general weakness, forgetfulness, or a possible misuse of alcohol.
o Deterioration of personal habits such as infrequent bathing and shampooing, not shaving, or not wearing dentures could be the result of either mental or physical problems.
o Increased car accidents can indicate slowed reflexes, poor vision, physical weakness, or general inability to handle a vehicle.
o General forgetfulness such as not paying bills, missing appointments, or consistently forgetting name, address, phone number, and meal times could be a signal.
o Extreme suspiciousness could indicate some thought disorder. Your parents thinking that their neighbors, friends, family, doctor, and lawyer are all conspiring against them would be an example. Intense ungrounded fears about dire consequences may be a danger signal.
o A series of small fires could be caused by dozing off, forgetting to turn off the stove or appliances, or carelessness with matches. They may indicate blackouts or dizzy spells.
o Bizarre behavior of any kind could be a warning sign. This behavior could be dressing in heavy gloves and overcoat in 90 degree weather or going outside without shoes when its raining (or snowing ). Watch for uncharacteristic actions or speech.
o Disorientation of a consistent nature may indicate a need for help. Examples include not knowing who one is, where one is, who the family is, or talking to people who are not there.
One day, everyone of us will get old. When taking care of the elderly, do pay respect to them as to yourself. Bear in mind : Patience and Respect are the basic principles.
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| Care for the Elderly Foundation, Inc, is located in Tugbok, Davao City |
Asia's Emergency Medical Services Institute, Inc. with Ms. Fe Arobo, Founder and Managing Director of Care for the Elderly Foundation, Inc. (Photo - Paul Aiden Barson, Fe Arobo, Craig A. Gibson and AEMS President Imee Callao)
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