The elderly are at an age where both physical and mental changes occur. The general physical deterioration, which usually begins around the age of 30, is one of the causes of many diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, brain diseases, and more. Common mental health problems in the elderly include depression, which often occurs in older adults with chronic illnesses who are unable to care for themselves or those living alone.
Healthy Aging Starts with a Check-up
Preparing properly for health care with correct and hygienic practices from the start can reduce the chances of developing diseases or various health problems. One way to help prevent diseases is through an “annual health check-up,” which helps prevent diseases caused by the deterioration of various organs such as the heart, kidneys, and brain. It is also necessary to check the completeness of vaccinations.
Health Care = Disease Prevention
- Control nutrition to suit the body. Avoid foods high in fat, very salty foods, and sweet foods.
- Avoid smoking and alcoholic beverages.
- Drink enough water to meet the body’s needs.
- Exercise suitable for the physical condition at least 3 times a week, 30 minutes each time.
- Maintain body weight within the standard range, avoiding excessive obesity.
- Keep a cheerful mind, avoid stress, and get enough rest.
- Regularly observe any abnormal symptoms of the body. If abnormalities occur, consult a doctor promptly.
- Avoid inappropriate medication use, such as self-medicating, using old medicine for new symptoms, or taking medicine from others.
- See a doctor regularly for advice on proper behavior and medication use.
- Have regular health check-ups every 6-12 months.
Holistic Health Care for the Strength of the Elderly
The services at Phyathai 3 Hospital provide holistic care for the elderly, including general health care, preventive care, and health consultations both internally and externally from a multidisciplinary team consisting of specialist doctors, specialist nurses, pharmacists, dietitians, and physical therapists. The details are as follows:
1. Services from Specialist Nurses
- Comprehensive assessment of the general condition of the elderly, focusing on care and prevention of risk conditions and complications, which helps reduce the chances of diseases or health problems.
2. Services from Pharmacists
- Review of medication use.
- Provide advice and consultation on correct and safe medication use.
3. Services from Dietitians
- Provide personalized dietary advice according to specific diseases for suitability and to promote the health of the elderly. Advise on the energy intake from food to match the body’s needs, appropriate protein amounts to strengthen muscles, sufficient calcium to prevent osteoporosis, as well as the types and characteristics of suitable foods and healthy menus for the elderly.
4. Services from Physical Therapists
- Balance testing to assess the risk of falls.
- Provide initial exercise advice for the elderly, tailored to each individual.
Knowing the benefits of annual health check-ups for the elderly, we should pay attention to the health of our grandparents at home so that they can stay with us happily for a long time.
