People expect to live a stress-free life after retirement. But when the time comes, it is not all roses as one might have imagined. While they are exempted from significant responsibilities in life, they also face specific challenges. Older adults, especially in the US, encounter many problems because of their age and circumstances. It is also a challenge for their near and dear ones, who struggle to give them all the support they need.
To lead a better life post-retirement, one must identify the problems first. Once you understand the challenges you face, addressing them becomes more manageable. While some suffer from depression and loneliness, their health issues cause significant concerns for others. Here are some of the most common problems that senior American citizens face
Physical and Mental Health
As one grows old, their health naturally deteriorates due to biological factors. However, this does not mean every sexagenarian will immediately suffer from diseases after retirement. If you follow healthy aging tips, you can lead a wholesome life for long years, but it cannot be denied that older people are prone to diseases.
Our bones and muscles begin to weaken with age and many face mobility issues. Therefore, you must engage in physical activities and stay fit to keep yourself strong. Loss of eyesight and hearing is also common in old age, and thus frequently visiting the doctor will ensure you get the best treatment at the right time.
When it comes to mental health, clinical depression is the most common among senior citizens. Besides that, anxiety disorders, psychosis and dementia are also detected. Therefore, it is important to monitor symptoms and visit a doctor when you notice signs. Younger family members must also watch for such signs, as older adults often brush off these symptoms in the early stages. For example, if you spot early signs of Alzheimer’s disease in your aging parents, do not delay getting them checked by a professional.
Suitable Transport System
The American government does little concerning transport for the elderly and the disabled. People who cannot travel safely by public transit and private cars often fail to keep up with their doctor’s appointments and miss out on family functions. Ambulances do not fulfill your non-emergency medical needs, and thus it becomes challenging to bring the patient back safely to the house by car. However, thanks to NEMT transportation, you can avail transport home from the hospital. NEMT companies provide secure vans with safety belts, crutches, and wheelchairs that serve the old and the disabled perfectly.
NEMT services are doing a great job, but even today, many senior citizens face the problem of transportation. Conventional modes of transportation are neither safe nor suitable for people with illness or mobility issues. Driving is also dangerous once you have hit the age bar of sixty. Therefore, when discharging your parents from the hospital, a NEMT service is mandatory in your discharge planning checklist.
Ageism
Stereotypes about elderly people often keep them away from the core of society. This often leads to feeling lonely and isolated, affecting their mental health. Instead, we must consider them a part of our society by involving them in the community.
Financial Insecurity
Financial insecurity is one of the biggest challenges the elderly have to face. After retirement, one loses job security and must live off the retirement fund. While some work past their retirement age, finding a decent job is not always possible after a certain age. This brings them to a juncture where they must always be particular about their expenditure or depend on others.
Managing and planning finances also pose a challenge because elderly people are often not informed about technology. Unfortunately, this also makes them prey to financial scams and fraud.
The cost of healthcare and nursing homes is soaring high each day. It is becoming difficult for retired citizens to cover these costs. Most people do not get proper treatment due to their lack of resources, especially if they are left to pay the bills by themselves.
Condition of Long-Term Care Facilities
Many American older adults live in long-term care facilities. These facilities are expensive but do not always provide the best quality services. Most are understaffed, which leads to unhygienic living conditions, and many residents fall sick due to their negligence and poor service. Food quality is also questionable, and they do not fulfill their daily nutrient requirements.
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Old age is undoubtedly challenging, but society must strive hard to make life easier for older adults. They are an essential part of our society, and we can learn much from their experience and knowledge. NEMT services have made transportation easier for them in recent times, but we need to do more than that. Improving living conditions and ensuring financial security is the next thing we should look in
