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T H E C A R E G I V E R ’ S T O O L K I T
CHAPTER 1
EXPLORING CHALLENGES
Only 4% of people over 65 live in a nursing home. Seniors, especially those
who have taken good care of themselves, can expect to remain active and
alert in their later years and function well enough to care for their own needs.
Health problems should not be dismissed automatically as simply due to old
age; however, certain changes are part of the normal aging process.
Common Caregiving Concerns
WHAT TO EXPECT
By recognizing these changes, you may be able to help your
relative adapt:
•
VISION
tends to worsen with age. Individuals become more far-sighted and their eyes
are less able to adjust to changes in light. This may result in problems with glare and
difficulties with driving at night.
•
HEARING
is less acute, especially at higher frequencies. This may cause difficulties in
hearing conversation.
•
SENSE OF TASTE/SMELL
may change leading to a decreased interest in food.
•
CHANGES IN SLEEP PATTERNS
are common. Seniors may not sleep soundly,
take longer to fall asleep, and wake up more often at night or wake very early in the
morning. These changes can be disturbing to older people, and they will sometimes
try sleep medications, which can be dangerous.
•
DIGESTION
slows due to tissue and muscular changes and may result in
constipation.
•
BONES
often become thinner, and changes in cartilage tissue also occur. This can
sometimes lead to restricted movement, stooped posture and increased risk of
fractures. Joints also tend to become stiffer.
•
BODY TEMPERATURE
may vary as the ability to regulate declines, especially in the
arms and legs.
•
SKIN
becomes more fragile. Skin surface is less sensitive to the touch, so damage
may not be noticeable until there is a serious problem.
•
BALANCE:
Many seniors experience dizziness with sudden changes in body position.
Seek medical attention if serious problems with balance or dizziness occur.
Harford County Department
of Community Services
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