Page 24 - Seniors Today -Volume no1

Incontinence and Iatrogenic disorders.
The risk of falls in seniors is very high and
prevention of falls requires supervision.
Falls can be caused by diminishing vision,
osteoporosis, loss of strength, and medication,
among other things. Fractures seriously
impact an aged person, leading to a downward
spiral. Pain management is another area that
requires geriatric care.

What is often more worrying than physical Finance is a crucial area for seniors
health among seniors is mental health.
Dementia and depression are mental Some of the above applies more to seniors
conditions more frequently seen as people living in urban areas who would have
live longer. Alzheimer’s Disease is the worked in the organised sector and can
most common type of dementia which avail of retirement benefits. However,
affects memory, language, and thought. the vast majority in rural areas would
All these conditions require intervention have worked in the unorganised sector
and psychological consultation as early as and have no recourse to benefits in
possible. Caring for seniors with mental later life. They are therefore much more
health problems can be very stressful and dependent on family members. For them,
demanding. the government has to step in to provide
Finance is another crucial area for seniors who pensions and other benefits.
have normally retired from an active working As younger people get more and more
life. To enjoy a financially comfortable post- caught up in their own lives, seniors
retirement life, it is necessary in India to start find themselves increasingly alone. It
planning your finances from the time you is important that they maintain social
start earning. High inflation levels mean that contact with family and friends in order
the money you have saved can be less than to prevent depression and isolation.
sufficient to lead a good life. It is therefore Seniors should also be encouraged to take
essential to take good advice from experts up part-time work or involve themselves
and make up a savings plan. Life and health in community activities if they are mobile.
insurance, children’s education schemes and
saving for medical emergencies are other areas
to consider. It is also a good idea to make a will
and maintain a record of financial investments
and passwords so that in the event of serious
illness or demise, family members have easy
access to this information.

Seniors should take up part-time work

SENIORS TODAY | Volume 1 | Issue 1