We are constantly hearing certain buzz words in eldercare: aging in place, healthy aging, senior healthcare, wellness, and senior well-being.  How do we truly age in place and take care of our senior health needs in our current healthcare system?  One should become aware of the truths about aging versus the myths that are out there.  One should also help health care providers to promote wellness and independent function by asking them questions and having periodic overall health assessments. 

Do you know – Is this TRUE or a MYTH?

Most older adults are sick. 

MYTH!  Most older adults (78% of 65+) are healthy and engaged in normal activities.


If you are old, you are sick. 

MYTH!  Only 23% of older adults claim to have a disability.  85% of the debilitating diseases are from cancer, coronary artery disease, stroke, diabetes, kidney failure, obstructive lung disease, pneumonia, and flu. Remember  -- Chronic illness does not translate into functional inability.


Older adults have more chronic diseases than younger persons, but fewer acute illnesses.  

TRUE!  Older adults have more chronic diseases than younger persons, but fewer acute illnesses.  There are 102 acute illnesses reported per 100 people over 65 and 230 acute illness per 100 people under the age of 65.   85% of the debilitating diseases are from cancer, coronary artery disease, stroke, diabetes, kidney failure, obstructive lung disease, pneumonia, and flu.


Your body systems are affected by age.

MYTH!  Body systems such as your heart and lungs are minimally affected by age but PROFOUNDLY influenced by lifestyle behaviors such as cigarette smoking, physical activity,  what you eat, and sometimes if you have enough resources to access the care you need.

What should the older adult expect?  The older adult can expect to lose 2 inches of height by age 80, which can lead to changes in posture and our feet - which could affect our balance and create a potential fall risk.  Another fact is that the body cannot regulate its temperature as it did when one was younger, so an older adult needs to be aware of exposure both cold and heat.  If the temperature outside is high, the older adult is at risk for heat stroke.  

The most important item for an older adult to remember?  A health assessment promoting wellness and independent function is a must.  Remember that health care needs to be individualized… and that the body can remain healthy as one ages. Although our organs may gradually lose some function, a senior may not even notice these changes except during periods of great exertion or stress.
Today, there are more than 4 million Americans 85 and older. That number is expected to grow almost 5 times by the year 2050.  By the year 2030, it is estimated that the “oldest-old” (85 years and older), will grow to 10 million people. 

Views on aging are changing  

TRUE!  Aging is no longer synonymous with physical decline and illness. 


Future Blogs will continue to address the issues of senior health care and healthy aging.

Resources:
• Luggen, A.,S Meiner,S. E. (Eds.). (2001) National gerontological nursing association: Core curriculum for gerontological nursing. St. Lois:  Mosby.
• Mezey, M, Fulmer,T, Mariano, C, (Eds.). (2005) Best nursing practices in care of older adult. Curriculum Guide. ( 3rd ed.) New York:  The John A. Hartford Foundation: Institute for Geriatric Nursing.