Seniors who suffer from anemia frequently have a low level of hemoglobin or red blood cells in their blood. This disorder, which can lead to several health issues, can hurt the quality of life and general well-being of seniors. Knowing this, it’s essential for seniors and those who care for them, such as senior home care providers, to understand the causes, signs, and treatment of anemia.
Anemia: What Is It?
A diagnosis of anemia means the body can’t produce enough healthy red blood cells to supply the tissues with enough oxygen. Unfortunately, realizing that anemia is the culprit rather than blaming seniors’ symptoms on aging can be a challenge. This is because one of the ways that anemia presents itself is by making seniors feel weak and tired.
What Causes Anemia in Seniors?
There are numerous potential causes of senior anemia. Some of the most common are explored below:
Nutritional Deficiencies: Common causes of anemia include deficiencies in iron, vitamin B12, and folate, since the synthesis of red blood cells depends on these substances.
Chronic Illnesses: Rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and chronic renal illness can all affect the body’s ability to produce red blood cells.
Side Effects of Medications: Anemia is a side effect of some medications, such as those used to treat cancer and arthritis.
Bone Marrow Disorders: Conditions like myelodysplastic syndromes can prevent the bone marrow from producing red blood cells.
What Symptoms Indicate Anemia?
As mentioned, anemia is commonly disregarded in seniors as the symptoms are similar to what happens during the normal aging process. However, while both aging and anemia can make seniors tired, the feeling of being tired doesn’t appear to go away when anemia is the culprit. The good news is that senior home care can help pinpoint the symptoms of anemia and encourage seniors to get the care they need.
In the meantime, common symptoms to watch for include the following:
- Fatigue: Constantly feeling exhausted, even after taking a break.
- Weakness: Having insufficient strength to carry out daily tasks.
- Pale Skin: Skin that is noticeably paler than usual, especially on the hands and face.
- Breathing Difficulties: Having trouble breathing, whether at rest or during physical exertion.
- Feeling Unstable: Feeling faint or unstable, especially when standing up too fast.
- Cold Hands and Feet: Cold extremities can result from impaired circulation.
Treating Anemia
The underlying cause of anemia in seniors determines how to treat it. Seniors can work with their medical team to understand the treatment plan, which might include things like the following:
Dietary Adjustments: Increasing the consumption of foods high in vitamin B12 and folate, as well as foods high in iron (such as red meat, beans, and leafy green vegetables), can help alleviate nutritional deficiencies.
Supplements: To address deficiencies, doctors may give iron, vitamin B12, and folate supplements.
Treating Underlying Conditions: Anemia can be improved by taking care of chronic illnesses and other issues that might be connected to the diagnosis.
Medication: Medication to treat bone marrow abnormalities or to boost red blood cell production may be required in some situations.
Senior anemia is a dangerous illness that can seriously affect one’s health and quality of life. It is imperative to identify issues early on and take proper action to avoid difficulties and enhance results. With the help of loved ones, their medical team, and senior home care, seniors can gain valuable knowledge about anemia and take steps to improve their situation.
Sources: https://www.healthline.com/health/anemia-in-elderly
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/anemia/symptoms-causes/syc-20351360
https://betterhealthwhileaging.net/anemia-in-aging/