What is Geriatrics ? What are the problems associated with Geriatric population?

Understanding Geriatric Population & Associated Problems

The geriatric population, generally defined as individuals aged 60 years and above, faces a multitude of interconnected challenges. These can be broadly categorized as follows:

1. Health-Related Problems

• Chronic Diseases: Geriatric individuals are more susceptible to chronic diseases like cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, arthritis, and neurodegenerative disorders (Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s). These conditions require long-term care and management.
• Sensory Impairments: Age-related decline in vision and hearing is common, impacting quality of life and increasing the risk of accidents.
• Frailty: A state of increased vulnerability to stressors, characterized by decreased physiological reserve and increased risk of adverse outcomes.
• Mental Health Issues: Depression, anxiety, and dementia are prevalent among the elderly, often underdiagnosed and undertreated.
• Malnutrition: Reduced appetite, difficulty chewing, and social isolation can lead to malnutrition.

2. Socio-Economic Problems

• Poverty & Financial Insecurity: Many elderly individuals lack adequate pension or savings, making them financially vulnerable, especially with rising healthcare costs.
• Social Isolation & Loneliness: Loss of spouse, retirement, and geographical distance from family can lead to social isolation and loneliness, impacting mental and physical health.
• Elder Abuse: Physical, emotional, financial, and neglectful abuse of elderly individuals is a growing concern.
• Lack of Employment Opportunities: Limited opportunities for continued employment or engagement in productive activities.

3. Psychological Problems

• Loss of Independence: Declining physical and cognitive abilities can lead to a loss of independence and self-esteem.
• Fear of Death & Dying: Increased awareness of mortality can cause anxiety and fear.
• Grief & Bereavement: Loss of loved ones is a common experience in old age, leading to grief and emotional distress.
• Cognitive Decline: Memory loss and other cognitive impairments can affect daily functioning and quality of life.

4. Infrastructural & Accessibility Problems

• Lack of Age-Friendly Infrastructure: Many cities and towns lack infrastructure designed to meet the needs of the elderly, such as accessible transportation, ramps, and handrails.
• Limited Access to Healthcare: Geographical barriers, lack of transportation, and financial constraints can limit access to healthcare services.
• Inadequate Long-Term Care Facilities: Shortage of affordable and quality long-term care facilities for those requiring specialized care.
• Digital Divide: Limited access to and knowledge of technology can exclude the elderly from accessing information and services.

5. Demographic & Regional Disparities

The problems faced by the geriatric population are not uniform across India. Rural areas often have limited access to healthcare and social support services compared to urban areas. Furthermore, states with lower socio-economic indicators tend to have a higher prevalence of geriatric health problems.

Problem Area	Rural Areas	Urban Areas
Healthcare Access	Limited facilities, long distances, fewer specialists	Better access to hospitals, specialists, and diagnostic services
Social Support	Stronger family ties, but limited formal support systems	Weaker family ties, greater reliance on formal support systems
Economic Security	Higher dependence on agriculture, lower pension coverage	More diverse employment opportunities, higher pension coverage