 | Beth Simpson, is the Program Director for the Senior Behavioral Health Services at Girard Medical Center. With over 25 years of experience working in mental health, Beth has spent the last six years directing geriatric programs.
One of the programs that Beth directs, the Structured Outpatient Program, provides mental health services for individual s 55 years and older. Individuals may be referred to the program by themselves, family members, physicians, clergy, social service agencies, nursing home or assisted living staff.
After assessment by a physician, a plan of care is developed with the patient. Patients participate in small group therapy to learn more effective ways to deal with their problems. A patient may be enrolled in the Medicare approved program up to four days/week. Beth can be reached at Girard Medical Center by calling 620.724.7288. |
Health & Medicine
2011-02-01 14:24:00
Aging healthy
Answer: This is a situation that most of us eventually face as children of aging parents. Regular contact with your parents via phone or visits, contact with trusted friends, relatives or neighbors, as well as contact with their physicians would be advised.
“The number and percentage of elderly in our society is growing rapidly. Twenty-one percent of the U.S. population is age 55 or older and 12% is 65 or older. People are living longer with the
average life expectancy at 78.2 years for females and 71.2 for males. While the population is living longer, they are not necessarily healthier. Eighty percent of people 85 and older have at least one chronic health problem.” (*1)
To stay healthy it is important to recognize when your parents should visit the doctor. Starting with the heart or cardiovascular system, encourage them to have regular blood pressure checks. Be aware that orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure when standing) often occurs in older individuals and may be a side effect of medications.
In the older adult the respiratory system, is at greater risk for infections due to loss of lung elasticity and loss of respiratory muscle strength. It is recommended that older adults get an annual flu shot to minimize the risk of respiratory infections.
As an individual ages, the gastrointestinal absorption rate declines. This decrease in activity level may cause constipation. Maintaining a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fiber as well as consuming adequate liquids is important for bowel regularity.
Skin and connective tissue becomes less elastic with aging. Cells reproduce more slowly and wrinkles are more common. There are fewer fat layers on the face and limbs. With less perspiration, the skin becomes dryer. Cuts, bruises, or other wounds are slower to heal. Keeping the body hydrated on the inside and moisturized on the outside is important.
Muscles decrease in strength, endurance and size. The aging person’s joints become stiffer and the bones are more prominent. The loss of teeth may cause changes in diet. Instability with walk and balance, as well as osteoporosis contributes to increased falls. Regular participation in weight bearing exercises at least three times per week can reduce the loss of muscle strength and mass. There are exercise classes in most communities designed for seniors.
Older adults with behavioral health needs are often struggling to adapt to physical and emotional changes. The process of aging impacts no two individuals in the same way. The actual loss and/or potential for loss of physical and/or emotional health are a reality for individuals in this age group. As the body ages, the older adult may worry about his/her overall physical health.
A slowing of mental functions and some decline in memory is expected with aging. However, some medical conditions which include urinary tract infections, reduced B12 levels, thyroid abnormalities, and dehydration may increase an individual’s confusion. If you suspect your parent has suffered from a sudden change in cognition or memory, contact his/her physician.
Depression is not a part of the normal aging process. The older adult usually doesn’t label their condition as a “depression.” Depression may occur in response to physical illness, cognitive decline, or some other event or situation. Thirty-percent or more of older adults with medical problems will suffer from depression. Some of the symptoms you may want to look for include: increased irritability during conversations, apathy, changes in sleep, (too much or insomnia) or recent weight loss. If you observe these symptoms, report them to your parent’s physician.
It is possible that your parents can improve their physical and mental health with a few preventative changes in lifestyle.
(*1 Care of the Older Adult Handout, Diamond Healthcare, April 2010.)
