Problems of elderly

Nursing Medical Surgical Topic

1. Health problems of elderly

2. Introduction India can be called as “an aging nation” with 8.3% of its population being more than 60 years old. With the declined mortality rate and increased life expectancy, a significant part of demographic change is the gradual increase in the number of elderly persons. Among the elderly are growing at a fast pace and these people are usually weaker, insecure, more frail, dependent and suffer more often from age-related diseases. The increasing life span and poor health care add to the degree of disability among the elderly people and compound the problems of care giving.

3. 1- Nervous System The structure and function of the nervous system change with advanced age. The loss of nerve cells contributes to a progressive loss of brain mass, and the synthesis and metabolism of the major neurotransmitters are also reduced. Common Problems related to nervous system are: Sleep Disorders (Insomnia) Delirium Cognition Impairment (Dementia) Depression

4. 2- Respiratory System Age-related changes in the respiratory system affect lung capacity and function and include Fatigue and breathlessness with sustained activity Difficulty coughing up secretions Decrease in vital capacity Respiratory Disease (COPD, Pneumonia, Respiratory Infections )

5. 3- Special Senses Sensory losses with old age affect all sensory organs and can be devastating to the person who cannot see to read or watch television, hear conversation well enough to communicate, or discriminate taste well enough to enjoy food. The common problems are: Vision and Hearing Problems Decreased ability to Taste and smell:

6. 4- Gastrointestinal System The older adult is at increased risk for impaired nutrition. Periodontal disease leading to tooth decay and loss of teeth is common. Salivary flow diminishes, and the older person may experience a dry mouth. Major complaints often center on: Oral Decay , dry mouth , complaints of fullness, heartburn, indigestion; constipation, flatulence, Abdominal discomfort

7. 5- Cardiovascular System Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the aged. The heart valves become thicker and stiffer, and the heart muscle and arteries lose their elasticity. Calcium and fat deposits accumulate within arterial walls, and veins become increasingly tortuous. The common problems related to cardiovascular system are Increased blood pressure Over-fatigue, Shortness of breath Heart disease (CCF,MI)

8. 6- Musculoskeletal System A gradual, progressive decrease in bone mass begins before the age of 40 years. Excessive loss of bone density results in osteoporosis, which affects both older men and women but is most prevalent in postmenopausal women. It is also seen in older men who are receiving hormone treatments for prostate cancer. The muscles diminish in size and lose strength, flexibility, and endurance with decreased activity and advanced age. Common problems related to musculoskeletal system are: 1- Osteoporosis 2- Arthritis 3- Gait disorders/falls 4- Joint pain 5- Back pain; 6- Loss of strength,

9. 7- Genitourinary System The genitourinary system continues to function adequately in older people, although there is a decrease in kidney mass, primarily because of a loss of nephrons Changes in kidney function include a decreased filtration rate, diminished tubular function with less efficiency in resorbing and concentrating the urine, and a slower restoration of acid–base balance in response to stress. Major problems related to genitourinary system are:- Urinary retention Urinary Incontinence Male: Benign prostatic hyperplasia Female: Relaxed perineal muscles, urethral dysfunction

10. 8- Reproductive System In older men, the penis and testes decrease in size, and levels of androgens diminish. Ovarian production of estrogen and progesterone ceases with menopause. Changes occurring in the female reproductive system include thinning of the vaginal wall, along with a narrowing in size and a loss of elasticity; decreased vaginal secretions. Common problems related to reproductive system are: Female: Painful intercourse; Vaginal bleeding following intercourse; Vaginal itching and irritation; Delayed orgasm Male: Delayed erection and achievement of orgasm

11. 9- Integumentary System The functions of the skin include protection, temperature regulation, sensation, and excretion. With aging, changes occur that affect the function and appearance of the skin. The epidermis and dermis become thinner. Elastic fibers are reduced in number, and collagen becomes stiffer. Which causes Intolerance to heat Diminished secretion of natural oils and perspiration Wrinkled Skin Skin appears thin Complaints of injuries, bruises, and sunburn

12. Other Obesity Cancer Diabetes