Anemia In Seniors - All You Need To Know

Author: Debosree Majumder

"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 senior loved ones are more likely to lose physical strength, experience functional decline, and may end up in the hospital due to anemia.

Borderline anemia may cause serious trouble for our senior loved ones. It is important for us to always look for the signs and symptoms and ensure that it is detected and treated as early as possible. If you are availing of caregiving services for the elderly at your home, then the professional caregiver must keep you updated about your senior loved one’s health.

Causes of Anemia

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

  • Folate deficiency

  • Vitamin B12 deficiency

  • Gastrointestinal bleeding

  • Bone Marrow disorders

  • Certain medications

  • Chronic Inflammation etc all can contribute to the cause of anemia in seniors.

Now, let us have a close look at the signs and symptoms of anemia in senior people:-

  • Physical weakness

  • Fatigue

  • Shortness of breath

  • Pale Skin

  • Headaches

  • High Heart rate

  • Irritability

  • Low blood pressure ( if anemia is caused due to bleeding)

These signs always indicate that your senior loved ones need to be evaluated by a doctor. Elder Care Service providers in Kolkata offer Doctor’s Assistance Services at Home in the comfort of your home that you can avail for your beloved senior.

Treatment of Anemia:-

  • Anemia caused due to Iron deficiency

This type of anemia is generally common in younger people but when senior people have 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

When Anemia is caused due to chronic diseases such as Cancer, or kidney diseases the best thing to do is to consult a specialist promptly. Elder Care Service providers in Kolkata provide Doctor’s Assistance services and can guide you to find the best for your senior loved ones to make them feel better.

This is what you need to know about anemia, which is one of the common conditions that your senior loved ones may suffer from. Treating the underlying cause of anemia and making some dietary changes can help your senior loved ones deal with this extremely common condition easily.