Health and the ageing process

In Western society, the over 65s are the most rapidly expanding age group. Although many young people fear getting old, for most people the latter part of their life can be a time of great enjoyment, activity and usefulness.

‘It's just my age, I have to expect this,’ should never be a reason for anyone to ignore things which interfere with their lives.

Ageing brings with it some inevitable restrictions, particularly in respect to physical fitness and mobility. In general this shows up as a gradual ‘slowing down’ process. Everyday tasks will take a little longer. Muscles and ligaments become less flexible and elastic. The heart muscle can't pump as strongly as before. Less food is needed to provide the energy required for living.

This ‘normal’ ageing process is often not the main reason for many of the things that happen to older people. Often there is a treatable medical cause for what is happening.

When to seek medical advice

It is important to seek medical advice if any of the following happen:

• frequent falls;
• significant memory loss;
• incontinence;
• difficulty in walking;
• anxiety or depressed mood;
• painful joints; or
• constipation or diarrhoea (or any major changes to bowel habits).

Difficulty in coping with everyday life

Although some of these problems cannot be cured, they can almost always be helped. If you, or an elderly relative, are blaming the things that are bothering you on old age, you might be wrong. Talk to your doctor.

Original material provided by mydr, CMPMedica Australia.