How do we define “old” or “elderly”? Is it the way we move, our attitude, the number of years we have lived or the number of medications we need to take in order to remain out of a hospital bed? The Government of India adopted ‘National Policy on Older Persons’ in January, 1999 which defines ‘senior citizen’ or ‘elderly’ as a person who is of age 60 years or above.
However, as we know, people are living on much beyond their 60s and 70s even in India, due to better lifestyles and care available. Unfortunately, the older elderly still do not have reliable support systems or community networks in place, which could help them, lead an active and fulfilling life. Since ‘living’ is quite different from ‘existing’, Geriatric Health goes far beyond the basic approach of simply treating sick elderly. Even the practice of Geriatric Medicine has evolved into one that is holistic, because many issues faced specifically by the elderly, are not medical in nature, yet can adversely affect their lives.
Active Aging often needs refined inputs in the following areas:
- Therapeutic diets – Specially prepared diets which are high in nutrition, yet easy to chew, and digest and customised for any dietary restrictions such as those suffering from Diabetes or Chronic Kidney disease. Just like sports nutritionists, there are people who specialise in diets for elderly and this can make a world of difference in overall energy and activity levels of seniors.
- Accessibility to outdoors – Urban living is indeed life in a concrete jungle and many elderly are forced to remain indoors in their usually small rooms with no access to the blue sky or the sun or nature in any form. If only they had some form of assistance by which they could periodically access the outdoors and become close to nature again. Several organisations provide companions who can escort the elderly for outdoor activities including even picnics and day trips. It is a huge psychological boost to reconnect with people and places from one’s earlier days.
- Participation – Be it in games, or courses, gardening or reading, pottery or cooking, (virtual or physical), the elderly either withdraw themselves due to perceived (or real) impairment, or are side-lined by the more capable and enthusiastic youngsters of the household with the general comment of “take rest”. Involvement or engagement in stimulating mental or physical activities as per the choice and interest of the elderly have a tremendous impact on their well-being and need active encouragement.
- Socialisation – Indians are famous for their gregarious social dos, and one only needs to witness one such event to see the metamorphosis it causes for the elders of the family. This is an age-old practice that brings families together and fosters the bonds of faith and love. Covid has helped rediscover the importance of having real people in our lives and having even small get togethers with friends and families can create a positive impact on the lives of elders.
- E-learning – The impact of computers and the internet is undeniable and irreversible in our lives and without knowing how to use these, the elderly are completely left behind even in a sea of people because they are all stuck to their smartphones. Gentle motivation and constant support can help overcome their resistance to using gadgets and devices which make their lives easier and much more interesting. It is often also a life saver especially when they want to shop or bank from the comfort of their homes.
Thus, elder care at home is not just about physical healthcare. It is a holistic approach to help seniors become as independent and active as possible till the last days of their lives. Being an organisation which supports active aging, we are committed to bringing the best possible care at home for our elders, and we have a devoted and trained multidisciplinary team to help customise care plans. We can be contacted at 7044074009 for more information on care for the elderly.
Dr Aloka Dalal
Dr Soma Bhattacharjee 28th Feb 2023