As your patients age, they may develop unique health challenges you don’t often see in younger individuals. While no two people are the same, your job as a physician is understanding common aging population healthcare challenges.
Current estimates suggest that 24.3% of adults over 65 (not in a long-term care facility) are in fair or poor health. And 9% of that same group struggle with self-care.
That’s why it’s critical for practitioners to be aware of common health challenges of the elderly and how to address them. Below is a guide to six medical concerns among older adults and treatment options.
1. Osteoarthritis (OA)
Many older adults develop osteoarthritis, which causes chronic pain and potential disability. OA is a prevalent challenge of an aging population, with one study showing that as many as 52% of participants had the diagnosis.
The condition is often more common among women or those with risks like being overweight. Pain management should be the main course of action when you diagnose a patient with OA.
- Analgesics (pain reliever medications)
- Joint replacement surgery
- Rehabilitation therapies
- Injections
- Osteotomy (bone realignment)
Physicians may also encourage patients to choose a healthy diet, exercise, and destressing routines.
2. Fall-Related Injuries
Another issue facing older individuals is the risk of falling and injuring themselves. Over 30% of adults above 70 have a fall that causes injury each year. Risk factors that increase the likelihood of falls include floor hazards, vision concerns, and balance issues.
To help reduce this challenge among older people, practitioners can consider:
- Encourage physical activity
- Test the person’s vision and hearing
- Educate patients and caregivers about balance and strength training
- Initiate or perform at-home assessments
Another way to reduce fall-related injuries is to develop a plan for lowering at-home risks with the patient and caregiver.
3. Urinary Incontinence
Urinary incontinence, or uncontrolled bladder leakage, is a common issue among aging individuals. Since it can affect a person’s physical and emotional well-being, practitioners should take a proactive approach.
In a patient with these concerns, providers may want to recommend:
- Pelvic floor exercises
- Timed bathroom breaks
- Medications (in certain situations due to the risk of adverse effects)
- Catheter or other medical devices
- Bladder surgery
- Disposable incontinence products, including underwear and furniture pads
Some people may be embarrassed to discuss urinary incontinence. If they broach the subject, take their concerns seriously and provide helpful suggestions. Generally, you should screen all adult patients for urinary incontinence by speaking to them directly.
4. Dementia
Alzheimer’s and dementia cause a person’s memory and brain functioning to deteriorate. Older adults who develop dementia will likely have needs that require outside assistance.
Since medications focus on symptom management, physicians should take a proactive approach to medical care for the aging population. Try these suggestions:
- Review patient medications: Sometimes, medicines for unrelated issues may contribute to cognitive decline. Narcotics, antihistamines, and benzodiazepines are common examples.
- Evaluate behavioral concerns: Dementia patients may have depression, delusions, or aggression that negatively impact their lives. Talk with them and their caregiver to see if non-medication treatments can curb these issues.
- Refer patients to specialists: Geriatric psychiatrists, mental health counselors, and social workers are specialists who can help with care management processes.
- Make a plan with the patient and caregiver: Provide easy-to-understand instructions and education for the person and their caregiver. Discuss safety, at-home aids and technology, and healthy lifestyle choices.
One of the primary goals of dementia treatment is determining how to promote independence and improve quality of life. Using these tactics can help you decide what is most beneficial for the patient and their family.
5. Depression
Although people of any age can experience depression, it’s a common issue among older adults. Unfortunately, many factors contribute to the development of this mental health condition, including:
- Physical, emotional, or financial abuse
- Social isolation
- Disabilities
- Grief
- Ageism
- Income changes
- Reduced sense of purpose
- Transition to a nursing facility or care home
To help reduce depression, encourage patients to form positive habits and use the social programs available to them.
6. Malnutrition
Malnutrition is another common issue in older adults, particularly those with depression, dementia, or alcoholism. Income concerns, lack of transportation, and mobility issues can also make eating more challenging.
Malnutrition can cause or worsen existing problems, such as weakened immune systems or muscles. Physicians should discuss healthy eating habits with patients and caregivers to enhance nutrition.
You may also want to recommend food services for those who struggle to cook or buy food, or nutritional supplements, such as vitamins or meal shakes.
Stay Up-to-Date on the Latest Trends in the Aging Population and Healthcare
The health of older adults is a prominent topic that will continue to evolve as the population ages. That’s why it’s crucial for health practitioners to stay on top of the latest challenges, solutions, and innovations.
With senior-focused continuing medical education (CME), you can stay ahead of the curve. Find in-person, online, and on-demand seminars to get started!