Anemia in Seniors- Causes, Symptoms, Treatment

According to Wikipedia, “Anemia is a certain type of blood disorder in which blood has a reduced ability to carry oxygen due to lower than a normal number of red blood cells, or a reduction in the amount of hemoglobin.” Though it may not seem like a serious disease according to studies seniors are more likely to experience functional decline, and physical weakness and may end up in the hospital due to anemia.

Even Borderline anemia can cause serious trouble for our senior loved ones. We must be careful and always look for the signs and symptoms of anemia in our seniors and ensure that it is detected and treated as early as possible. If your senior loved one is under the care of a professional caregiver, then make sure the professional caregiver keeps you updated about your senior loved one's health.

Let us have a close look at the causes of Anemia:

The most common causes of anemia in senior people are iron deficiency:-

⇒  Gastrointestinal bleeding 
⇒  Bone Marrow disorders 
⇒  Certain Medications 
⇒  Folate deficiency
⇒  Vitamin B12 deficiency
⇒  Chronic Inflammation etc 

Signs and symptoms of anemia in senior people:- 

⇒  Physical weakness
⇒  Fatigue
⇒  Headaches
⇒  High Heart rate 
⇒  Irritability 
⇒  Low blood pressure ( if anemia is caused due to bleeding)
⇒  Shortness of breath
⇒  Pale Skin 
 
If your senior loved one is showing any of these above-mentioned symptoms, they need to be evaluated by a doctor as soon as possible. Elder Care Services in Kolkata offer Doctor’s Assistance at Home in the comfort of your home that you can avail for senior loved ones.

Treatment of Anemia:-

Anemia caused due to Iron deficiency:  This type of anemia is generally common in younger people but when senior people this type of anemia is caused either due to gastrointestinal bleeding or limited iron absorption in the intestine. Eating a healthy and nutritional diet can make a huge difference. This type of anemia can be easily detected through a simple “CBC “ or complete blood count test and the doctor may prescribe iron supplements. Iron supplements taken in proper doses can also cause side effects such as constipation, diarrhea, and stomach pain. Taking these pills with food can reduce these side effects. Your senior loved ones must follow the doctor’s instructions while taking iron medications. Red Meat, Eggs, Nuts, Seafood, spinach, and whole grains are healthy sources of iron. Don’t forget to add these iron-rich foods to your loved one’s diet.

Senior people are often unable to absorb Vitamin B12 from food. Vitamin B12 deficiency can be treated with oral supplements but Vitamin B12 injections are usually the most effective treatment. Your senior loved ones should consume meat, egg, fish, cheese, and milk to increase the level of Vitamin B12  naturally.

Folate deficiencies can be treated with folic acid supplements prescribed by the doctor. Your senior loved one can also consume cruciferous vegetables such as cauliflower, Broccoli, Brussels sprout, leafy vegetables, fresh fruits, whole grains, etc.

Anemia caused due to Chronic Diseases:  The best thing to do is to consult a specialist promptly when  Anemia is caused due to chronic diseases such as Cancer, or kidney diseases. Elder Care Service providers in Kolkata services and can guide you to find the best for your senior loved ones to make them feel better.

Anemia is one of the most common diseases that your senior loved ones may suffer from as they age. Treating the underlying cause of anemia and making some dietary changes can help your senior loved ones deal with this condition easily and lead a happy and active life.