Anemia is a common health problem that affects millions of older adults, but it often goes undetected or is thought to simply be a normal part of getting older.  In fact, it is a blood condition that can be quite dangerous for seniors if not managed appropriately, which is where trained elder care providers come in.

With their help, seniors can learn about anemia and how to manage it so it doesn’t interfere with their lives.

 

Why Seniors Are at Risk

There are several reasons seniors are more likely to have anemia.  As people grow older, their bodies naturally change, which can affect blood production. Additionally, bone marrow, which produces red blood cells, stops working over time. As a result, seniors may have trouble maintaining optimum red blood cell levels, even when everything else looks good, because of this slow decline.

Chronic diseases also play a major role. Many seniors struggle with conditions such as kidney disease, cancer, diabetes, or inflammatory disorders that make it challenging for their bodies to make or keep healthy red blood cells.  Kidney disease is especially problematic because healthy kidneys make a hormone called erythropoietin that tells the body to make red blood cells.

Another common reason seniors may be at higher risk of anemia is nutrient deficiency. This may be due to several issues. First, older adults are less able to absorb iron, vitamin B12, and folate than younger adults. Second, mobility issues, dental problems, lack of energy to shop or cook, or poor appetite can all lead to unhealthy diets among seniors, likely resulting in insufficient nutrient intake. Finally, some seniors take medications that further impair their ability to absorb nutrients or produce blood cells.

 

Detecting the Signs of Anemia

Some signs of anemia include feeling worn out, weak, dizzy, short of breath, or confused. Unfortunately, as noted above, these symptoms may be overlooked because they’re considered part of normal aging. However, elder care providers can spot patterns and recognize that it may be something else, then encourage the senior to speak with their medical team. This is key, as undetected anemia can increase fall risk, worsen heart health, and impact cognitive functioning as well.

 

Other Ways Elder Care Makes a Difference

Beyond identifying signs of anemia, trained caregivers can encourage seniors to adhere to their treatment plans, which may include iron supplements, vitamin injections, or medications to increase red blood cell production.

Nutrition is another key part of managing anemia, and caregivers can make meals that are high in iron by using lean meats, beans, leafy greens, and fortified cereals.  They can also encourage seniors to make sure they’re getting enough vitamin C, which helps the body absorb iron better.

Additionally, regular check-ins with the doctor are key to managing anemia properly. Elder care can remind seniors about appointments, provide transportation, or help them set up their computer or tablet if the visit is virtual. They can also monitor medication side effects and ensure that supplements are taken as prescribed.

Finally, caregivers also keep seniors company and encourage safe, light exercise that helps improve circulation and overall health.

 

With the help of elder care, seniors can better manage anemia and stay independent for as long as possible.

 

 

 

If you or an aging loved one is considering Elder Care in La Crescenta, CA, please contact the caring staff at Nu Care Inc. today. 800-505-6890

 

 

Sources:

• https://www.healthinaging.org/a-z-topic/anemia/lifestyle
• https://premierhematology.com/blog/anemia-fatigue-in-older-adults
• https://www.healthline.com/health/anemia-in-elderly