Elderly Care for Multi-morbid seniors

Multi-morbidity is slowly becoming common in India. Comprehensive elderly care for seniors with multiple chronic conditions is an important element of healthy ageing. Multimorbidity affects the physical and psychological well-being of seniors. Some of the most commonly seen conditions in seniors are hypertension, diabetes, arthritis, constipation, hearing loss, pain/swelling of joints, limitation of movement, breathlessness, and vision-related issues. The key elements of elderly care in multimorbid seniors are

Tracking Vitals

For seniors with multiple conditions, it is important to ensure regular tracking of vital parameters like blood pressure and blood sugar. The prevalence of diabetes and hypertension ranks very high among Indian seniors. Therefore, it is a good idea to seek the treating doctor’s advice in setting acceptable vital readings. Again, this could vary depending on the health condition of the senior. It is important for the caregiver to know the values at which alerts should be sent out for action.

Exercise

When the senior is able to and inclined to perform exercises, the caregiver should facilitate and encourage it. Seniors who have mobility challenges can use suitable mobility aids. A caregiver’s role is to ensure that the aid is used correctly and without any accidents. Passive exercises are recommended even for bedridden patients. Exercises prevent stiffness and promote a sense of well-being. A physiotherapist could help set up an exercise regime suitable for the senior.

Medication management

Polypharmacy is a reality for seniors with multiple illnesses. Managing over 2 drugs smoothly warrants: (a). giving the drug at the right time, and (b) giving the right quantity of the drug. Regulating insulin for seniors with diabetes is vital. Medicine management in elderly care includes ensuring the availability of drugs. Drugs should be given in the right dosage, be administered at the right time and in the right denomination. Timing of medication in relation to food is also an important element of good medicine management in elderly care.

Quick Identification of and response to any symptoms