Problems of the Elderly
                  Problems of the Elderly
      Bodily function changes along with ageing. 
      Eating problems can result in an imbalanced 
         diet that may subsequently affect nutritional 
         status. 
      Increased risk of developing chronic diseases 
         such as diabetes, high blood pressure and 
         heart diseases. 
      Other common problems among the elderly, 
         e.g.
          Osteoporosis
          Constipation
                                     2
                          Osteoporosis
                          Osteoporosis
       Osteoporosis is a metabolic disease of 
          bone.
       It leads to a reduction in bone density, a
          nd the affected bones become thinner a
          nd are more likely to break (fracture).
       It may result in pain and other complicat
          ions, including loss of independence. 
                                 (Source of information: Department of Health)
                                          3
                          Osteoporosis
                          Osteoporosis
     As it is necessary to build strong and healthy bones 
       starting at an early age, everyone should maintain 
       balanced diet and perform regular exercise over a 
       lifetime to avoid osteoporosis later in life. 
     Balanced diet
        Eat calcium-rich foods
        Ensure adequate vitamin D intake 
        Avoid salty (high sodium) food which affects 
           calcium absorption  
                            (Source of information: Department of Health)
                                          4
                          Constipation 
                          Constipation 
        If the faeces are very hard or if there is g
           reat difficulty in passing it out, then it is c
           onstipation. 
        Peristalsis of the intestine in the elderly i
           s usually weakened, hence they are mor
           e prone to constipation. 
        Inadequate water or lack of fibre in food l
           eads to hard faeces. 
                                  (Source of information: Department of Health)
                                          5
                           Constipation
                           Constipation
     Eating tips
      Take a high fibre diet
      Drink adequate fluid like water, soup and f
         ruit juice. 
      Exercise everyday can help increase peri
         staltic movement of the bowel;     be relax
         ed.
                                  (Source of information: Department of Health)
                                          6