MidnightCall Magazine
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News From Israel MagazineWhat can I do when my parents grow old?
This issue will affect most people sooner or later. Do you realize that the first wave of “baby- boomers” will turn 65 in 2010? That’s less than three years from now! Adults are divided into three age groups: Young adults (age 20 - 39); middle age (40 - 64); elderly (65 and older). At present, the elderly comprise 12-14 percent of the U.S. population, and account for more than 40 percent of acute hospital bed stay. They buy more than 30 percent of the prescription drugs sold, and 40 percent of over- thecounter (OTC) drugs. And, they use more than 65 percent of the federal health budget.
The elderly are reluctant to seek care that leads to hospitalization, because they associate hospitals with dying. Because many elderly believe that not feeling well is a part of growing old, they tend to conceal complaints that might indicate diseases that are treatable but that can lead to more serious conditions, even death, if ignored. So, be aware. Look for signs such as diminished vision, especially at night. There will come a time when your mom or dad will have to stop driving the car. You may be the one to tell them to give up their driver’s license. Believe me, this is no easy task! Not only will your parents resist you, but their transportation — even to the drug store, the grocery store, the doctor, or to family get-togethers like Thanksgiving and the Fourth of July — will then become the responsibility of your parents’ family and friends.
On average, six diseases coexist in older people, although a primary care physician may only be aware of half of them. Other things to look for may be urinary incontinence and hypothermia, which usually occurs in winter. (To prevent hypothermia, make sure the temperature inside the home is no lower than 72 degrees, and your parent is dressed warmly.) In warm weather, the elderly must avoid direct, prolonged sun on their skin, as they are prone to skin cancer. Overheating and dehydration due to excessive sweating also occurs more quickly. When the outside temperature reaches 90 degrees, it is better for your parents to stay indoors, and air conditioning is a wise investment.
Another good investment is a non-motorized treadmill with ski poles to work out the upper body. Or, if your parent prefers to sit, purchase a stationary bike with moveable handlebars.
As your parents grow older, you will want to consider the different options for their longterm care and well-being, especially if they become ill or disabled. Home care, which involves visiting nurses coming in between one and three times a week, is the most preferable arrangement for many families. Assisted living facilities are available for patients who need help on a daily basis; of course, this type of care costs more. Nursing homes are necessary for parents who have severe dementia, are immobilized, or have frequent urinary incontinence. Hospitals are for the seriously ill who need treatment. Hospice care is for people who are dying; the hospice staff is trained to alleviate symptoms and keep a person comfortable, rather than treat the disease.
Ephesians 6:1-3 says, “Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;) That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.”
* Dr. John Cionci is a Philadelphia native and graduate of Central High School, University of Pennsylvania, and Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. He is a member of the American Osteopathic Association and Chair of the AIDS Association. Dr. Cionci has been a practicing physician since 1950.