Last week we went over some of the basic problems affecting Seniors. Here's a more detailed list on some of the problems and their causes, as well as some solutions that are in place today.

• Hearing loss: Often as people grow older, their nerves become less sensitive. Many people have hearing damage sustained over a lifetime of popped balloons and lawnmowers. (Ever heard a ringing noise in your ears, even when there's nothing to cause it? You might have hearing damage too!)

• Vision problems: Ranging from cataracts (clouding of the eyes, sometimes treatable with surgery), to glaucoma (damaging of the optic nerve), to ordinary myopia (gotcha! This one just means near-sightedness), vision problems can seriously affect a Senior's life.

• Dementia: Alzheimer's, the most common form of dementia, is a common ailment that usually affects people aged 65+. Symptoms include memory troubles, confusion, irritability, and trouble speaking.

• Osteopenia: Osteopenia is basically a less serious form of Osteoporosis, or low bone density. It's caused when existing bone cells are being broken down faster than new ones are being made, leading to dangerously thin bones.

• Arthritis: Inflammation of the joints, resulting in pain and difficulty flexing the affected joints.

• Depression: Often due to loneliness or feeling unable to participate in previously enjoyed activities, depression is hard to treat, though Senior centers provide somewhere for elderly people to get together and have a good time.

• Low income: If Seniors don't have enough money saved for retirement, they may not be able to afford the medical care they require. They may also try to save money by eating cheaper food rather than healthy food.


Sources:
http://www.webmd.com/
http://www.wikipedia.org
Ryan's Dad (he's a biomedical engineer!)