Integritus Prime

In our Beyond Medicine series ‘Age is not a Cage’ we looked at perspectives on health by aging people and loved ones/caregivers in Episode 6. When we are stuck in our own ways of thinking, and viewpoints, it is harder to have empathy for how the other person is feeling. This is why it is important to take on other perspectives, and to be aware of our perceptions of aging, which help prevent anxiety and unnecessary stress in both aging people and loved ones/caregivers.

In an article from The Gerontologist reporting systematic research on a number of studies in databases on perception of health in older persons, the following results were noted:

–       There’s a strong association between positive perception of aging and increased quality of life

–       A negative perception of aging is associated with a lower quality of life

–       Older adults with high morale and good physical capability had more positive perceptions of health.

The above findings reflect why some people in their sixties and seventies are very happy with their age and life, while others, especially those with lifestyle diseases or disabilities, may not be doing too well. Aging and death are inevitable; we must accept the fact that our friends and families will pass away and there’s not much we can do about this, except maybe keeping in touch and loving them as they are.

Generally, aging is associated with decline in perception and cognition, hence necessitating the use of eyeglasses, hearing aids and other devices. Paying attention and remembering things (especially recent events) become more challenging. Aging people may become more aware of death, especially, for example, when their friends start dying.

These are 7 ways to deal with these feelings and perspectives:

1.     Accept that perspectives and perceptions are changing with aging

2.     Use the wisdom that older people have to live better

3.     Communicate any concerns with loved ones or care givers

4.     Disregard insignificant matters and prioritize relationships, health and experiences

5.     Make peace with past mistakes and /or misfortunes and celebrate all achievements (small or big)

6.     Share your wisdom, become mentors and guides to young people

7.     Cherish little things such as ability to walk in nature, showering by yourself, ability to read even with glasses and ability to do things for loved ones.

Looking at a caregivers’ perspective, we realize that their view is different from the aging person’s and the health care provider’s. They look at how aging and disease affect the person and also how the medical treatment is working. They are the patient’s advocate and may become concerned, protective, vigilant, and stressed. It is important to have an open communication channel and implement risk-reduction measures so the caregiver isn’t unduly stressed. Sometimes, aging people can become rebellious because they do not want to accept they are aging. It is important to take the time to understand how this rebellion makes the caregiver’s work harder.

Aging person’s perspectives include wanting to maintain independence, not appear unwell or aging, and not be reminded that they are becoming weaker in any way. This can often be at odds with the caregiver’s desire to take precautions and minimize risk, so it’s critical to communicate, understand each other’s motivations, and work together on solutions.

By keeping an open communication line and sharing feelings and perspectives, a lot of stress, misunderstanding and frustrations can be avoided.  Caregivers also need to take time off for themselves if they are looking after older people especially when the elderly suffer from lifestyle diseases or disabilities.

Share with us your experience in situations where your perspectives differ from the older people you are living with and how you are coping.