Seniors

 

 

idea: get students (ie from English) to go interview seniors in retirement homes etc and write their stories...

 

 

 

Seniors and Community

 

 

 

 


Health Concerns Affecting Seniors

Musculoskeletal system

As the population ages, the prevalence of disability rises

There is some debate between aging (programmed/cumulative problems) and degeneration (excessive rate, extent, or setting).

Aging leads to decreased collagen, excessive cross-linking, decreased hyaluronic acid, and dystrophic calcification. Stiffness results.

Earles lengthen and the nose broaden

Muscles have a reduced number of Type 2A fibres and size (Type 2B). There is a greater effect on lower extremities and superficial fibres. There can be patchy degeneration of myofibrils. SR can proliferate and dilate, and tehre isa shift toward anaerobic metabolism.

The function of individual fibres is maintained, but there is fallout of the motor unit and muscle fibre. This leads to reduction of performance and Vo2 max.

This decrease in stength and power begines to decline after age 50

Tendons

fraying and fibrillation occurs, and dystrophic calcification (hydroxyapetite) can decrease strength, leading to risk of rupture

bone shinkage lowers height 1.2 cm over 20 years

loss of height comes from decrease in intervertebral disc space.

get kyphosis, increased arm/height ratio

 

Gibbus deformity

 

 

 

Seniors and Transportation

Transportation is fundamental to social involvement and is related to the built environment and people's abilities.

 

Senior and Driving

Some seniors with medical conditions should have their driving assessed. Medications can cause trouble as well.

 

When discussing changes to people's driving, tell them 'driving is a priviledge, not a right...' and say 'its not due to health, not age'