As children of elderly parents, it can be difficult to witness the progressing age of our lifelong role models. These are the people we have looked up to since birth. Our parents took care of our every need. How can it be that now we are in a position where we must take care of their needs? It is the cycle of life as the young grow old, and the children must care for their parents.
Geriatric care is the medical care and management of older adults, including the diagnosis and treatment of age-related illnesses and conditions. Older adults, typically those over the age of 65, may develop a variety of health conditions that require specialized care and attention. Geriatric care can include medical care, support with activities of daily living, and assistance with managing chronic conditions
Some of the symptoms of dementia can include memory loss, especially for recent events, difficulty with communication and language, changes in mood and behaviour, and difficulty with daily tasks, such as bathing and dressing. Other indications include difficulty with spatial awareness and coordination, loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, confusion, and disorientation, even in familiar surroundings.
Transition care aims to ensure a smooth and safe transition for older adults while also addressing their individual needs and preferences. This may include coordinating and communicating with healthcare providers, providing specialised therapy and rehabilitation services, and helping seniors adjust to their new living situation. Another important aspect of transition care is supporting and educating older adults and their families. This can include helping them understand the different levels of care available and assisting with the decision-making process.
Palliative care is a type of medical care that focuses on improving the quality of life for individuals with serious or life-limiting illnesses. One of the primary goals of palliative care is to manage symptoms such as pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, constipation, nausea, loss of appetite, depression, and anxiety. This can be achieved through the use of medications, physical therapy, and other therapies. Palliative care also addresses the emotional and spiritual needs of the patient and their family, providing emotional support, counselling, and spiritual guidance.
In-home elder care services, also known as home care, provide assistance and support to older adults who wish to remain in their own homes as they age. These services can include help with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and meal preparation, as well as more specialized medical care, such as administering medications and monitoring vital signs. One of the main advantages of in-home geriatric care is that it allows older adults to maintain their independence and autonomy while receiving the care they need.
Neurological disorders affect the functioning of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. Stroke, Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Parkinson’s are some common neurological conditions. Neuro Rehabilitation is a specialized field of physical therapy that focuses on helping individuals recover from neurological conditions such as Stroke, Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Traumatic Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury and Parkinson’s. The goal of neuro rehabilitation is to help patients regain as much function as possible and to improve their overall quality of life.
In-home elder care services, also known as home care, provide assistance and support to older adults who wish to remain in their own homes as they age. These services can include help with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and meal preparation, as well as more specialized medical care, such as administering medications and monitoring vital signs.
It is important to understand the term hospice care, Hospice care is a type of medical care for individuals who have been diagnosed with a terminal illness and have a prognosis of six months or less to live. The focus of hospice care is on comfort and quality of life, rather than cure. It is often provided in the patient’s home or a hospice centre and offers medical, emotional, and spiritual support to the patient and their loved ones. A multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, social workers, chaplains, and volunteers, provide hospice care. The goal is to provide comprehensive care, manage pain and symptoms, and support the patient and their loved ones during the end-of-life journey.
Elderly care in India is a growing concern as the population ages. In Kerala, many families still rely on traditional care methods; older adults, such as parents or grandparents, always depend on families to provide assistance and emotional support when they can no longer function independently. However, this is becoming increasingly difficult as families become smaller and more nuclear. Additionally, the elder care facilities and services need to meet the expectations of
family members. Most older adults wish to remain in their homes rather than move to a nursing or assisted living facility.
