Development Stages in Old Age

Development Stages in Old Age The movement through the old age stage of human development includes particular stages, each introducing one-of-a-kind difficulties and open doors. Early Old Age (60s to 70s): This period frequently brings increased attention to ageing, provoking people to make health-related adjustments and explore the progress into retirement. Keeping up with physical activity and taking on a fair eating routine is significant in counteracting natural decreases in muscle mass and metabolism. Emotionally, this stage might include reclassifying one’s personality past expert roles, requiring the development of new interests and social connections to cultivate a feeling of direction. Middle Old Age (70s to 80s): During these years, people might encounter a perceptible decrease in physical stamina, making normal health management and preventive consideration fundamental. Social connections assume a crucial part in emotional well-being, as engagement with family, friends, and community can moderate sensations of confinement and improve personal satisfaction. Late Old Age (80+): In this stage, further health declines might increment reliance on others for everyday activities. Focus frequently moves to considering one’s life, contemplating legacy, and accomplishing a feeling of satisfaction. Erikson’s theory distinguishes this stage as ‘Integrity vs. Despair,’ where people evaluate their lives for significance and soundness. Support from friends and family and admittance to suitable healthcare services are basic to keeping up with dignity and comfort during this time. . Characteristics of the Old Age Stage The old age development stage encompasses a scope of characteristics that significantly influence individuals’ lives. Physical Changes: As individuals age, they frequently experience a slower metabolism and decreased muscle strength, which can prompt diminished energy levels and mobility challenges. Furthermore, age-related health conditions such as arthritis, cardiovascular diseases, and sensory impairments become more common, necessitating standard medical attention and lifestyle adjustments. Nutritional Changes: Nutritional needs evolve with age due to changes in metabolism, digestion, and appetite. Older adults often require fewer calories but a higher intake of essential nutrients such as protein, calcium, vitamin D, and fiber to maintain muscle mass, bone health, and digestive function. Dehydration is also a common concern, as the sense of thirst diminishes with age. A balanced, nutrient-dense diet and adequate hydration play a vital role in supporting overall health and preventing chronic diseases. Cognitive and Emotional Changes: Cognitive processing might slow, and some memory decline is normal in older adults. Be that as it may, many keep up with strong long-term memory and critical thinking abilities. Emotionally, there is an increased requirement for support as individuals explore the complexities of ageing, remembering to adapt to losses and changes in their social environment. Social Aspects: The transition into old age frequently brings shifts in social roles, such as retirement and changes in relational peculiarities. These shifts can sometimes prompt social isolation, especially on the off chance that mobility or health issues limit engagement in social activities. Keeping up with social connections is pivotal for emotional prosperity during this stage. Psychological Adjustments: Older adults regularly face the test of adjusting to various losses, including the passing of friends and family and diminishing physical abilities. This period also offers an opportunity for reflection on life’s achievements, fostering a sense of fulfillment and acknowledgment. Erikson’s theory identifies this stage as ‘Integrity vs. Despair,’ where individuals assess their lives for significance and intelligence. . Emotional and Social Well-being in Old Age Keeping up with emotional and social well-being is essential during the old age stage of human development. Solid social associations and an uplifting perspective essentially improve personal satisfaction. ● The Role of Family, Friends, and Care Providers Family members, friends, and elder care providers like Samarth assume significant parts in supporting older grown-ups. They offer emotional support, help with everyday activities, and assist with exploring health challenges, adding to a sense of safety and having a place. Drawing in with these support frameworks can prompt better mental health and, generally speaking, well-being. needs! NOT ABT SELF COMVENIENCE BUT WHAT NEEDED INCL SOCIAL INTERACTION, EMO SUPPIRT NENTAL HEAKTH UNDERSTD NEED US VITAL PROACTIVE AVOID BURNOUT RECHARGE TO AVOID FATIQUE EMO STRESS ANXIETY RESENTMENT

Shared responsibility

Sharing responsibility with siblings for caring for a mother is encouraged primarily to prevent caregiver burnout, reduce emotional stress, and ensure the parent receives the best possible care. When one sibling takes on all the responsibility, it can lead to exhaustion, resentment, and conflict, whereas a shared approach leverages different strengths and creates a sustainable, long-term support system. Here are the key reasons why this division of labor is encouraged: 1. Prevention of Caregiver Burnout Reduced Physical/Emotional Toll: Caregiving is demanding. Sharing tasks protects the primary caregiver from the exhaustion, anxiety, and depression that often accompany the role. Sustainability: Sharing ensures that care is sustainable for the long term, rather than resulting in a crisis where the primary caregiver is forced to stop due to burnout. 2. Improved Quality of Care for Your Mother Leveraging Different Strengths: Siblings often have different skills. One may excel at managing finances or navigating medical appointments, while another might be better at hands-on daily care, shopping, or emotional companionship. Reduced Isolation: Shared care ensures the mother is not solely dependent on one person, often reducing her feelings of isolation. 3. Better Sibling Relationships Reduction of Resentment: When one sibling does everything, resentment can build against those who do not help. Sharing, even if not perfectly equal, helps maintain positive relationships. Stronger Family Unity: Working together as a team fosters a sense of unity and shared purpose, which can deepen family bonds during a difficult time. 4. Practicality and Efficiency Geographic Flexibility: Siblings living far away can take on administrative tasks (finances, insurance, managing contractors), while local siblings handle in-person care. Respite and Support: It allows for "respite care," where siblings can take turns providing care, allowing others to have necessary breaks and maintain their own lives. 5. Clearer Decision Making Proactive Planning: Dividing responsibilities early prevents crisis-based, emotional decision-making. Objective Perspective: Involving multiple siblings can provide a more balanced perspective on the mother's needs, reducing, or at least managing, disagreements. How to Share the Load Define Roles: Distribute tasks based on who is available and capable, rather than assuming one person must do everything. Open Communication: Discuss, in advance, what each person can honestly contribute. Utilize Tools: Use shared calendars, group chats, or care apps to keep everyone in the loop. Encourage social engagement Isolation can lead to depression and cognitive decline. Helping your parents stay connected with friends, participate in community activities, or engage in hobbies may help support their mental well-being Be present Sometimes, the greatest support comes from simply spending quality time together. Whether it’s sharing a meal, taking a walk, or engaging in meaningful conversations, being there for them fosters a strong emotional connection. Take breaks when needed Caring for a loved one is demanding, and taking regular breaks allows you to recharge and maintain your well-being, ensuring that you can continue offering compassionate and effective support. Choosing your battles wisely may help create a more peaceful relationship. If your parents insist on doing things their way, ask yourself, "Does this really matter?" Prioritise their safety and well-being while allowing them to make their own choices when possible. Focus on what truly makes them happy, rather than controlling every situation. teminded TO TAKE CARE THEMSELF Ist PRIORITY Age Range Parent's Status Sibling Team Role 60s - 74 Independent/Active Planners: Organizing legal/financial safety nets. 75 - 84 Interdependent Assistants: Handling logistics and home safety. 85+ Increasing Frailty Care Managers: Coordinating daily support and health Physically, people might encounter a decrease in stamina, strength, and sensory acuity, close by changes in cardiovascular and respiratory capabilities.

Medication survey

Losartan Potassium is a prescription medication used mainly to treat: 1. High blood pressure (hypertension) It helps lower blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels so the heart doesn’t have to work as hard. 2. Protecting the kidneys Often used for people with diabetes or kidney disease to slow down kidney damage. 3. Heart-related conditions Sometimes used for heart failure or to help people after a heart attack. ⸻ How it works Losartan is part of a group of medicines called ARBs (Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers). It blocks a hormone that normally tightens your blood vessels. When this hormone is blocked, the vessels relax and widen → blood pressure goes down. ⸻ Common side effects Most people tolerate it well, but some may get: • Dizziness (usually when starting) • Tiredness • Headache • Slight increase in potassium levels (your doctor usually monitors this) ⸻ Important notes • Take it once daily, usually. • Do not stop suddenly without doctor advice. • Avoid potassium supplements unless instructed (to prevent too-high potassium levels). • Safe for long-term use under medical supervision. ⸻ Taking half a tablet of Losartan 50 mg (so 25 mg) is a low dose that doctors sometimes use when: • Blood pressure fluctuates (goes up and down) • You only need mild control • You are starting the medication slowly to avoid dizziness • Your pressure is sometimes normal or slightly high Here’s what you should know: ⸻ What 25 mg (half of 50 mg) typically does • Helps smooth out BP fluctuation • Prevents sudden spikes • Works gently and usually causes fewer side effects • Lasts about 24 hours in the body ⸻ Is it normal to be given a low dose? Yes. Many doctors start with 25 mg daily, especially if: • BP is not consistently high • You tend to get dizziness • You are older (safer to start low) • You are sensitive to medication ⸻ If your pressure fluctuates Some common reasons BP jumps up/down during the day: • Stress, lack of sleep • Coffee/tea and salty food • Walking/exercise versus resting • Dehydration • Anxiety • Pain • Certain medications • Hormonal changes Losartan helps stabilize these changes.

Mom chai Bp

Mom Admission 16/11/22. Infd doc : - High blood mrng 1 tab. - Diabetic-1 tablet (night) + cholesterol night 1 tab From Cathy photos Darah tinggi Hydrochloride 50g Pagi, 1/2 biji (mom said 1) Gluxoxit Metaformin Hydrochloride 500mg

Bp

BP check ************* Friday 21/10/22 4am wake up, Sabah holiday Morning 133/96 128/89 @klia 4:40pm 140/101. 138/100 @Kk Sat 22/10 Morning 130/89 (Day trip to Kundasang, Sabah) (Went for 5 canopy walk, high bridge) Night 150/103 Sun 23/10 Morning 151/106 >Walking 128/92 4:20pm 126/87 122/83 Night 149/101 148/101 >h.bath Monday 24/10 Fly back to kl fr KK Mrng & noon- didn’t take Night. 145/97. 135/93 Tues (sleep home)25/10 wake up 139/93. 134/91 128/84. 120/86 >walk 1pm 120/75 115/75 7:25pm 125/84. 117/81 >dinner 9:30pm 122/82. 120/80 Wed 26/10 6am. 125/83. 125/83 6:40pm 124/85. 121/80 >walk Thur 27/10 6am. 123/89 111/79 11:40am. 113/78. 114/78 >walk 7:30pm. 120/78. 111/80 Fri 28/10 6am 125/86 9pm. 140/91. 124/86 cafe/b’r Sat 29/10 6am. 128/86. 122/84 7:30am. 113/84. 110/82 >walk 6.25pm. 135/87. 125/90 9.55pm. 129/81. 126/78 Sun 30/10 7:50am. 125/80. 8:50pm. 126/80. 112/79 ************************** Mon 31/10 (no walk) Mrng till late afternoon o/side 8pm. 125/82 124/81 Tue 1/11 (rain-no walk) 8:40am. 133/91 129/88 10:45am. 116/84 112/81 2:10pm. 116/74 115/75 7:50pm. 110/76. 113/79 Wed 2/11 (rain-no walk) 7:30am. 127/87 122/87 Lunch luicha soup 7:55pm. 131/88 112/77 113/78 Thu 3/11 (doc 2wks) 5:15am. 117/86 116/86 10:25am. 110/74 112/75 >walk 3:00pm. 127/81 125/83 Fri 4/11 7:45am. 112/83 110/79 9:50am 108/78 110/79 >swim 9pm. 130/89 128/86 >cafe Sat 5/11 9:20am. 128/88 122/85 4pm. 122/80 116/76 9:25pm. 122/79. 114/70 Sun 6/11 (outing day incl cafe n tea) no exercise 8:15am. 133/93 129/88 8pm. 156/. 141/101 ************************** Mon 7/11 (weekend outside meals 6am. 145/102 141/100 7:25am. 141/100. 131/91. 114/90. 120/90 after walk 10am. 118/84. 108/78 > swim 7pm. 125/101 122/90 Tue 8/11 6am. 133/97 132/98 Wed 9/11 6am. 142/97. 127/93 121/92 7:30am. 124/84 115/83 >walk 3:30pm. 138/93 124/89 121/87 Thu 10/11 6:25am. 134/97. 131/92 119/86 8:15pm. 119/77. 117/77 Fri 11/11 9:45am. 123/83 117/81 >walk 8pm. 131/91 129/89. Sat 12/11 am. 113/80 118/81 pm. 12/8 11/ pm. 12/8 11/ Sun 13/11 am. 12/8 11/ pm. 12/8 11/ pm. 12/8 11/

Nutrition food for mental health

In a health sense, we consider our food and our diets mainly in the context of how they shape us physically: 

what makes our skin glow, what strengthens our bones, what helps with our eyesight or what might make us gain weight. The impact of our daily food intake, however, goes beyond that. 

 A nutritious diet can impact our mental health positively, just as much as a poor diet can be detrimental to our moods. If you haven’t been feeling like your sharp and energetic self lately, take a look at your daily food profile and identify what’s lacking. A deficiency in essential minerals and nutrients has been acknowledged as a contributing factor in the onset of mental health issues like bipolar disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and anxiety attacks. This has led to an increase in the exploration of nutritional psychiatry, where the use of dietary nutrients and supplements is a component of an integrated treatment programme for mental health conditions. Although this is not currently widespread practice, it should be. 

The current treatment for depression is primarily focused on counselling sessions and antidepressant medication, yet depression is on the rise. Clearly, there should be more to the treatment of mental health than just taking prescribed drugs. Another problem with antidepressants is that it may cause dependency, and it isn’t always reliable for relieving symptoms. 

Getting the right nutrition You may not be getting enough nutrition even when you eat three meals a day. Pay attention to whether you are eating the types of food that improves brain health, and if you aren’t, consider how much sugar and processed food you are consuming. Your mental wellness may very well depend on you cutting back on those high-calorie, nutrient-deficient foods. We are now becoming more aware of this link, as the body of knowledge on the impact of nutritional deficiencies on mental health grows. Deficiency in these 10 nutrients affect your mental wellness the most: 

 ● Zinc Low levels of zinc impacts appetite, mood, emotional state and energy levels. Remember to include foods like chicken, oysters, pumpkin seeds, cashew nuts, spinach and chickpeas to get more zinc in your diet. 

 ● Protein This macronutrient provides the building blocks for neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, both of which greatly influence your emotional state. Eat dairy products, fish, eggs, oats, nuts, lentils, tofu and cheese to ensure that you’re getting the right amino acids to build those neurotransmitters.

 ● Omega-3 fatty acids These are the types of fat that help keep the brain running in tip-top condition. Low amounts of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) may lead to mood swings, anxiety or difficulty focusing. To increase your omega-3 fatty acids, eat wild-caught fish like salmon, mackerel and sardines. If you don’t enjoy fish, eat walnuts, flaxseed or grass-fed beef. 

● Carbohydrates image: http://www1.star2.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/179828-300x300.jpeg 

Mental health, depression, anxiety, nutritional psychiatry, nutritional psychology, chickpeas, food and mood, Star2.com Not your usual energetic, sharp self of late? It might be your diet. — 123rf.com This macronutrient is important in our diets, even though many types of food habits encourage a lower intake of carbs. You need some of it to produce neurotransmitters, and they also regulate sleep and appetite. Avoid highly processed carbs and eat whole grain, veggies or oatmeal instead. 

 ● Selenium This trace mineral is easily omitted from our diets, because only select foods are rich in selenium. Based on research findings, selenium seems to improve mood in those who add this supplement to their food intake. To get selenium naturally, eating just two or three Brazil nuts will give you the daily recommended amount. 

 ● Iron Iron deficiency is often indicated by low energy and fatigue. 

It has also been associated with restlessness, depression and anxiety. Research has linked suboptimal iron levels and children with ADHD. Examples of iron-rich food are dark leafy greens, quinoa, lentils and meat. ● Vitamin D This vitamin is usually used to improve bone health, but it is important for the production of neurotransmitters too. Get more of this nutrient through foods like egg yolks, fortified milk, and fatty fish like tuna and salmon. 

● Magnesium This is one mineral that many people lack, even though you can get it from foods like bananas, avocados, salmon, spinach, chickpeas, broccoli and asparagus, among others. One study showed that taking daily supplements of magnesium led to great improvements in emotional state, regardless of gender, age and severity of condition. ● Vitamin B12 Also known as cobalamin, this vitamin is important for nerve health, improving brain function, and supporting DNA and red blood cell production. It is found primarily in dairy products, eggs and meat – lamb or cow liver, tuna, sardines, clams, trout and beef are all rich sources of B12. To reduce the risk of deficiency, vegans and vegetarians should take supplements or eat foods that are fortified in Vitamin B12, like cereals, non-dairy milk and nutritional yeast. ● Folate This is another type of vitamin B that’s linked to mental health issues. When someone has a folate deficiency, depression tends to be a key symptom. You can get more folate from these foods: asparagus, broccoli, avocado, lentils, chickpeas and kidney beans. Food is the future Nutritional supplements derived from food can be a useful way to make changes for the better in the case of mental health issues. With more scientific evidence that supports the use of nutritional psychiatry to treat mental health, the medical community is also starting to take note of the connection between mental conditions, inflammation and diet. In time, doctors and counsellors will need to be up to speed on the role of nutrition, just as much as they are knowledgeable about the human body. But you don’t have to wait until then. Make it a priority to change to a better and healthier diet that gives you the nutrients needed to improve your mental state and overall health. Or if you feel that you can’t do it alone, check with a doctor, nutritionist or dietitian to rule out any nutritional deficiencies. Datuk Dr Nor Ashikin Mokhtar is a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, and a functional medicine practitioner. For further information, email starhealth@thestar.com.my. The information provided is for educational and communication purposes only and it should not be construed as personal medical advice. Information published in this article is not intended to replace, supplant or augment a consultation with a health professional regarding the reader’s own medical care. The Star does not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to the content appearing in this column. The Star disclaims all responsibility for any losses, damage to property or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on such information. Read more at https://www.star2.com/health/2019/07/29/what-we-eat-affects-mental-health/#hcTWe59MysXlV3xm.99