Currently, India is confronting a conspicuous increase in its senescent population. According to a recent census, the elderly population in India has crossed over 138 million in 2021 collated to 104 million in 2011. Considering this sharp increase, the count of elderly people in India is projected to cross over 324 million by the year 2050. Despite the improvement in the healthcare policies and amenities in India, the geriatric syndromes that the elderly go through need to be highlighted. Factors like demographic shifts and cultural and familial aspects substantially impact the functionality and quality of life of elderly people.
According to a recent journal from World Health Organisation, low vision and near blindness, as well as hearing impairments, are the pre-eminent syndromes for geriatric conditions. As much as 66 per cent of the elderly population inhabiting in the rural areas of India are undernourished or are at risk of malnutrition. Out of all the geriatric syndromes, there are five most quotidian geriatric syndromes that are adumbrated more than the rest.
Incontinence
Incontinence is a common problem among older adults and can be caused by various factors, including weakened pelvic muscles, nerve damage, and prostate problems in both genders. There are even some medications that can lead to bladder control problems. One-third of the Indian population over 60 suffer from this syndrome. Still, there is a significant amount of stigma and taboo associated with urinary incontinence, often resulting in people not seeking medical help. This can lead to a delay in diagnosis and treatment, making it more challenging to manage the condition.
Immobility
Immobility refers to being unable to move or limited in movement. Physical effects of stiffness include:
- Muscle weakness.
- Decreased flexibility and range of motion.
- Reduced circulation.
- An increased risk of pressure ulcers (bed sores).
Additionally, long-term immobility can shepherd to bone density and structure changes, positing individuals at risk for osteoporosis and fractures.
Instability
Instability can be due to several factors, including physical and cognitive decline, chronic illnesses, emotional stress and the use of medications that can cause drowsiness. Cognitive decline can also contribute to instability during old age. Dementia and other forms of memory loss can impair an elderly person’s ability to think, judge, and respond to their environment. This can lead to confusion, disorientation, and the inability to recognise hazardous situations.
Intellectual impairment
Intellectual impairment, also known as cognitive disability, is a term used to chronicle individuals with significant limitations in their cognitive abilities and adaptive behaviours. Intellectual impairment is a lifelong condition caused by disparate factors such as genetic disorders, prenatal exposure to toxins, brain injury, or infections.
Organ failure
Organ failure during old age is a serious issue affecting millions of seniors yearly. As people age, their bodies undergo changes that can cause organs to function less efficiently or even stop working altogether. This can lead to a wide range of health problems and reduced quality of life.
In conclusion, tending to elderly people with geriatric syndromes is vital to ensure their safety and help them live independently. Artha Senior Care is committed to supporting older adults with such health conditions. There are nurse desks with alarm alerts on each floor for instant emergency response. State-of-the-art wheelchairs are built ergonomically for the mobility requirements of the residents. There are ramps placed strategically for easy movement of the elderly and the wheelchair. In-house doctor consultations and physiotherapy sessions ensure complete check-up and improving physical well-being.
