Understanding changes in the elderly

Old age can manifest itself in a number of different ways

, and no one person's ageing experience is identical to another's. While one 76 year old may continue to live independently, another may have suffered physical or cognitive changes that prevent them from living and functioning independently. It is important that those working in the aged care industry understand the different issues and problems that older people might face, so that they can better understand and care for our elderly population.

Here's a rundown of some of the different issues that elderly people commonly face that can bring about fundamental changes to their lifestyle and living situations.

- Physical changes. As the body ages, it changes. Whether it's a general slowing down, a deterioration of functions or a more radical and immediate change (such as a stroke), monitoring these changes and understanding the mental and emotional implications of an ageing body are important. The way an aged care worker offers help to someone whose body is undergoing physical changes can be just as important as the assistance administered.

- Cognitive changes. While someone may have all their physical abilities, cognitive changes involve the deterioration of one's mental state. This can manifest itself in a number of ways, whether that is in inappropriate behaviour, distractedness, forgetfulness or confusion. Patience and understanding is essential for aged care workers, who must be able to work with such cognitive changes.

- Social changes. As people age, their social environments can change dramatically. Their living arrangements, the changes or passing of their friends or family, and the physical restrictions on what they may be able to do are just some examples of the unsettled social environment they might find themselves in. For aged care workers, sensitivity to their changing social world is essential in helping to care for them as they experience these changes.

- Independence changes. Many elderly people experience a sense of shame in having to ask for help. Aged care workers play an important role in helping the elderly lose their independence with dignity. By working with the patient and understanding the difficulty of relying on others for your everyday functioning, aged care workers can significantly ease this process.

Aged care workers play a vital role in society and can make a positive and crucial difference in the lives of elderly citizens. Understanding the different types of change that old age can trigger can help aged care workers interact with and assist those requiring help in a more engaged and supportive manner. Aged care is a rewarding career that helps makes the twilight years of others more comfortable and enjoyable. If you're interested in helping elderly Australians work through such changes, then an aged care course is a good place to start.

Aged care courses, which can be taken with online or distance education institutions, teach students the essential competencies to assist the older population.

Could you make a positive contribution to the lives of the elderly?

Understanding changes in the elderly

By: Eva Jio

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