The Elderly as a Vulnerable Population, Essay Example

Introduction

The elderly population are often faced with an array of problems that occur as part of the natural aging process.  One of the most traumatic being the death or loss of a long standing partner.  This can often lead to an extreme feeling of vulnerability including loneliness, grief, a sense of isolation and sometimes financial difficulties.  Making the adjustment to a widow or widower in old age can be a tremendous problem and often takes upwards of 12 months to try and regain some forward momentum of your life.  Suicidal tendencies often are a normal reaction but the key is the ability talk with friends and other family to gain support.  Some people manage to make the adjustment by forming bonds with new companions whilst others continue the remaining voyage of life alone.  (Dent, A. 2011)

Elderly as a Vulnerable Population

There are in addition a number of serious illnesses associated with the aging process and amongst the more serious of these are Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and Dementia. These are what is known as progressive diseases in so far as they deteriorate over time.  Alzheimer’s is a form of dementia that impacts the brain as it impacts memory thinking and behaviour. In most cases it will require nursing support and ultimately nursing home treatment. (Shiel, W.C. 2011)

Medical assistance to the elderly has now progressed beyond that of basic medical care and is concerned with the preservation of quality of life.  Most people are now starting to live longer and enjoy their retirement years.  Most care is targetted at individuals who are 65 years of age or older and in a state of physical decline.  Most vulnerable people prefer to live at home and receive community or home help and assistance.  One survey conducted by the Rand Corporation indicates that more research is required in the need for the provision of effective health care for the elderly.  (Rand Health, 2011)

Works Cited

Dent, D. A. (2011). Death of a partner. Retrieved 5 31, 2011, from BBC Health: http://www.bbc.co.uk/health/emotional_health/bereavement/bereavement_deathpartner.shtml

Rand Health. (2011). Developing quality of care indicators for the vulnerable elderly. Retrieved 5 30, 2011, from Rand Health: http://www.rand.org/pubs/research_briefs/RB4545-1/index1.html

Shiel, W. S. (2011). Alzheimer’s Disease Doctor to Patient. Retrieved 5 31, 2011, from Medicine Net: http://www.medicinenet.com/alzheimers_disease_causes_stages_and_symptoms/article.htm