1. Common Neurological Disorders in the Elderly
If you are past the age of 65, it is likely that you are at risk of running into one or more of neurological disorders. Multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, strokes, and Parkinson's disease are some of them. However, the incidence varies across different parts of the world. In some places, around 10 percent of folks over the age of 65 and half of those above 85 may be afflicted with Alzheimer's disease. In certain areas, elderly with Parkinson's disease may report issues ranging from loss of muscle control, causing tremors, stiffness, slowness of movements and difficulty in balance. However, these numbers are not uniform throughout the world. Therefore, what is common in the developed world is not so in more underdeveloped areas and vice versa.
2. Chances of Success
The availability of healthcare providers at every step, whether at home or a clinic is facilitating elderly activities of daily living with great ease. In fact, with increasing technological and scientific advances, the disability and dependency should be minimal. Rapid advances in modern science and medicine have made it absolutely feasible to address any disorder or disability to the highest possible standard of care. In fact, governments are increasing their commitment to providing healthcare facilities and concessions at the primary, secondary and tertiary levels. Indeed, governments worldwide are striving to offer better access to health care, social care and rehab services. Often, public health services are able to take care of your needs at little to no cost. Any issues associated with activities of daily living are being addressed by community health care services. Multidisciplinary rehabilitation has proven beneficial in early recovery of stroke and traumatic brain injury patients. No wonder record numbers of elderly individuals worldwide are living to ripe old age, with minimal disability.
3. Removing Barriers
According to the World Health Organization, stigma and discrimination against people with neurological disorders exist globally. However, solutions are being offered. Improvement in public education, global and local campaigns and a variety of public health actions involving governments, health professionals, patients, carers and the mass media are increasingly available. These measures have helped end the isolation of the elderly to a great extent. You are given priority attention and care for your condition.
4. Is There Always a Cure for Neurological Diseases of Elderly?
It should be understood that age can take a toll on your mental health and it is not always possible to find a clear solution. For instance, dementia associated with Alzheimer's disease affects nearly 25 million people worldwide. It is a disease not normally associated with aging, but much can be done to improve the quality of life with the help of primary care services. In fact, you are best assessed and treated at your own home. It is possible to access newer drugs (such as anticholinesterase agents) under public or private treatment plans.
5. Prevent Elderly Neurological Disorders
You can start by controlling your risk factors, such as blood pressure, cholesterol, smoking, body mass, low physical activity, diet and diabetes to prevent diseases like stroke. Community-based promotion and access to treatment can substantially decrease the burden. Aspirin is the most cost-effective intervention both for treating acute stroke and for preventing a recurrence. However, in the absence of proven therapies for diseases like Parkinson's, early detection can help in successfully managing the ailment.
