1. Give Them Time
There are many changes that take place as we age, not the least of which is a decline in our cognitive function. When interacting with the elderly, give them time. Don't rush or hurry their actions or words unless there is a safety concern. When asking questions or conversing, give them time to think, respond and become engaged in the conversation. Their wisdom, humor and stories are worth the effort.
2. Getting Older Doesn't Have to Mean More Pain
Associating pain with aging is common among the elderly and their families, but new conditions and diseases don't have to come hand-in-hand with pain. Encourage the elderly people in your life to communicate any and all pain they're having with their health care provider. As we age we can begin to feel burdensome and our concerns can begin to sound like complaints in our own ears. Pain does not have to be synonymous with aging--both modern medicines and alternative therapies offer wonderful, effective pain treatments.
3. Memory Loss is Down
Research suggests that memory loss and thinking problems in individuals over the age of 70 have decreased. Higher education, better health care and higher economic status have all decreased symptoms associated with memory loss, dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Health care providers are also promoting a "use it or lose it" philosophy when it comes to cognitive function: One small crossword puzzle a day can help maintain brain and cognitive health now and in the future.
4. Life's Changes Can Lead to Depression
Our lives change as we age. We may lose our spouses, move from existing homes, have increasing difficulty getting around and suffer from pain and disease. Adapting to these changes can be extremely challenging; not adapting well can lead to depression. Depression in the elderly is fairly common and is defined by such symptoms as fatigue, appetite loss, trouble sleeping, aches and pains and memory loss--all of which are common to aging itself. Feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness or sadness may present themselves along with these physical symptoms. Anyone suffering from these symptoms every day for more than 2 weeks should see a health care provider.
5. Decreasing Reflexes
Just as our cognitive functions slow down with the passing years, so too do our reflexes and our reaction time. This becomes a significant difficulty when driving skills become impaired because of a decrease in reaction time. Keep in mind that medications often taken by seniors can add to the loss of focus and decreased reaction time that may hinder driving ability. Losing the freedom to drive is an enormous concession and should be done with the utmost care and consideration for safety.
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