Question

James who is 95 years, has failing hearing, reduced vision and a blood pressure of 140/88 mm/Hg, for which he takes no medications. He lives in a small village in Asia surrounded by his children and grandchildren. His family has little money but does own a small sustainable farm. Members of the community view James as a wise elder. Is he healthy given his age, and just subject to the normal process of aging? Or does he have heart disease, and can he be categorized as sick? What are the key determinants of health that should be considered?

Answer 1

James 95 year old experiencing normal physiological changes happening as the age increases. He is helathy

As the person age increases, they become more susceptible to disability and disease. Most of health problems of elderly can be prevented or reduced by adequately addressing the specific risk factors.

Determinants of heath of elderly

Physical environments: Safe housing, clean water, clean air, and safe foods

Injury: Risk of falls increases as age increases.

Personal factors: Biology and genetic factor

Development of non-communicable diseases: Due to certain unhealthy lifestyle practices such as Poor nutrition, physical inactivity, tobacco use and harmful use of alcohol contribute to the development of chronic conditions:

Poverty: Risk of poverty grows with older age and is much higher among women than men. Many of elderly cannot afford to pay health costs, including prescription drugs, from their own pockets.

Elder maltreatment: Elder maltreatment is the physical, mental, sexual, and/or financial abuse and/or negligence of people aged 60 years and older.

Social isolation and exclusion, mental health disorders: Loneliness, social isolation and social exclusion are important social determinants and risk factors of ill health among older people.