Every day, seniors face myriad problems they are afraid or ashamed to discuss with their loved ones. Understanding these problems is essential for you to facilitate a discussion with or about your loved one and help discover solutions for their concerns. Here are 5 of the biggest concerns for seniors and what you can do to help them.
1. Outliving Their Savings
Life expectancy has risen rapidly from the latter half of the 20th century, and more seniors find themselves outliving their retirement incomes and savings. One of the reasons is that seniors are more likely to live on a fixed income such as Social Security, pensions, or retirement savings, than younger adults. As a result, elderly adults can have little flexibility in the income they receive each month.
In addition, market volatility makes seniors reluctant to leave their investment dollars in high-yield stocks because of the risk of a market crash. Sound and active financial planning is the only way to protect your loved ones’ retirement savings and keep them safe from financial difficulties. If your senior loved ones are unprepared for expenses after retirement, look into financial options as early as possible. Elderly care benefits are available through Medicare/Medicaid, but some programs have waiting lists.
2. Healthcare Costs
One of the primary reasons many seniors run out of savings early is the cost of healthcare. Insurance and Medicare cover some costs, but chronic conditions and significant medical procedures can drain savings quickly. The key to controlling healthcare costs is using preventive measures before health afflictions become threatening to a senior. Home care agencies in Delaware County provide transportation services to doctor’s offices and pharmacies, assisting your loved ones in meeting their preventive healthcare needs.
3. Health Conditions
A primary reason healthcare costs are a significant concern for seniors is the numerous health problems older adults face. Chronic diseases and conditions are long-term health problems that often occur or worsen as adults age. Some of the health concerns for seniors include the following:
- Cognitive decline and diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease
- Heart disease and other cardiovascular issues
- Oral health issues like gingivitis
- Reduced balance or motor skills, which can lead to falling and tripping
- Vision or hearing loss
These health issues can have long-term side effects for people aged 65 or older. Chronic health issues can drastically change an older adult’s lifestyle, which can lead to difficult changes and adjustments. Preventing these illnesses and diseases, whether by helping seniors be physically active or providing transportation services for preventive care, will improve your loved one’s quality of life.
Injuries are another health concern. For example, when a senior slips and falls, a wide range of medical problems can arise, including broken bones or other complications. Slip and fall accidents are most troubling for seniors who live alone or have family members who are often unable to visit. Neighborly Home Care in-home visitation provides for regular check-ins on your loved ones, giving both them and you peace of mind knowing that they are safe in their homes.