Old age does not come easy. As people get older, they often need more help taking care of themselves and maintaining their homes. This includes cooking, cleaning, and other tasks that may come with a disability. But it also includes other aspects such as emotional support and advice, companionship, and financial advice.

A study by the National Council on Aging found that about 90% of people aged 60 or older need some kind of assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, and using the toilet. And that number jumps to almost 100% for those aged 85 or older. That’s why it’s so important for families to take care of their elderly parents. Not only is it the right thing to do, but there are also several health reasons why your parents need more care as they age.

Decreased mobility

As you get older, your body’s muscles and bones start to wear out. This makes it difficult for you to move around, and it can make everyday tasks like walking and standing very hard to do. Even if your parents love taking walks in the park when they are younger, these things may become too much for them as they age. Consequently, it doesn’t come off as a surprise that elderly home care advisors explain that decreased mobility can also lead to other health problems. For example, if your parents are unable to move around as much, they may not get as much exercise. This can lead to obesity, heart problems, and other health issues.

Falls

Another big danger for elderly people is falling. Falls can cause serious injuries, like broken bones, and they can even be deadly. Falls are the leading cause of injury and death among people over 65 years old. Their bones are brittle and the healing takes much longer for an older body because the cells are not as active.

This is why families need to keep a close eye on elderly parents. If they are living alone, make sure that there are no tripping hazards in their home and that they have sturdy furniture that can support them if they fall. Also, encourage them to take regular breaks and to eat a healthy diet, which may reduce their risk of falling.

Aches and pains

As you get older, your body becomes more prone to aches and pain. About 80 percent of adults over the age of 75 suffer from at least one chronic health problem. This is often due to arthritis or other conditions that cause pain in the joints and muscles.

As your parents get older, they may not be able to take pain medication as often as before since it can cause them to feel more tired and groggy than usual. Instead of taking medication several times a day, some families opt for medical marijuana for their elderly loved ones so they can control how much pain medication they need on any given day.

Depression

It’s not uncommon for elderly people to experience symptoms of depression. This can be due to several things, like the loss of a spouse or friends, feeling isolated, or having health problems that they can’t control. Depression is a serious condition and it should not be ignored.

If your parents are experiencing symptoms of depression, encourage them to see a doctor. There are many treatments for depression, including medication and therapy. With the help of a doctor, your parents can get back to feeling like their old selves again.

Dementia

Another health issue that elderly people may experience is dementia, especially Alzheimer’s disease. The condition gets worse over time and it affects the brain. Symptoms of dementia include confusion, memory loss, trouble thinking clearly or concentrating, mood swings, and paranoia.

Many families choose to care for elderly loved ones with dementia at home since it’s less expensive than a nursing home. However, it can be very hard to care for someone with dementia. They often require a lot of supervision and assistance with everyday tasks.

If your parents are diagnosed with dementia, make sure you get as much information as you can about how to best care for them. There are many support groups and resources available to help families deal with dementia.

Caregiving can be difficult and it’s all too easy to burn out when you are taking care of so many people at once, especially if they have multiple health problems. Make sure that your health and well-being are a priority, and take time for yourself to relax and recharge.

The health reasons why your parents need more care as they age are many and varied. However, with a little bit of preparation and planning, you can make sure that they get the care they need and deserve. Stay vigilant in watching for any potential health problems and be proactive in discussing your concerns with a doctor.

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