Each stage of aging has its own challenges.
Life is filled with hardships.
I think we would all agree on this, yes?
Our own choices cause some of these.
I refer to these as "unforced errors."
Others simply seem to come as part of the deal, depending on your stage of life.
Although people cannot avoid aging, they can take steps to prepare for the challenges associated with upcoming life stages.
Although genetics play a significant role in aging well, preparing for each stage can help prolong physical and emotional health.
The first stage of aging is considered the “Young-Old” stage.
When does this period of aging occur?
Those ages 65 to 74 generally fall into the "Young-Old” category.
While many people in this cohort are able to maintain active and healthy lives, they must consider emerging aspects of aging.
Routine checkups with healthcare providers have become crucial to proactively addressing possible medical issues.
Regular exercise, good sleep, and balanced diets allow individuals to maintain their health and ability to remain active.
Although many look forward to retirement, the shift from full-time work can be jarring.
Lack of structure, connection with coworkers, or accomplishment of meaningful tasks can lead to mental and emotional strain.
Those who are retiring or who have retired should engage in social connections, hobbies, and continual learning to promote their mental and emotional well-being.
After the “Young-Old” stage, seniors enter the “Middle-Old” timeframe.
The range for “Middle-Old” is generally between ages 75 and 84.
Compared to the “Young-Old” group, those in this category have more medical concerns.
Arthritis, diabetes, and high blood pressure commonly arise or become more pronounced in this stage.
How can those who are “Middle-Old” promote their own health and well-being?
Seeking consistent medical care and faithfully taking medications can be critical to minimizing the effects of common ailments.
If mobility becomes an increasing problem, safety and sociability can be compromised.
Using mobility aids or relying on the support of others can help maintain independence.
The “Old-Old” stage is for those aged 85 or older.
Those in this category will likely require assistance with activities of daily living, such as moving around, eating, or bathing.
As the brain ages, the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s increases.
Men and women experiencing cognitive decline may require specialized care.
While end-of-life planning is often unpleasant, individuals in the "Old-Old" stage need to outline their wishes so healthcare workers and family members will respect them.
This is where advance health care directives and other legal documents can give those in this group greater peace of mind.
Those who live to or past their 100th birthday will have reached an incredible milestone.
They will also have lost loved ones and much of their physical independence.
Seniors in this “Elite-Old” category will likely require more careful and close monitoring to address their complex healthcare needs.
Cognitive decline is common with aging at any stage.
Some of the issues are age-related, or they can be activity-related.
Did you ever play "contact" football when "getting your bell rung" (i.e., a concussion) was just part of the game?
While mental changes are to be expected, it is important to be able to recognize and treat them as they arise.
Those who experience mild cognitive impairment will experience occasional memory lapses.
Loved ones should monitor these moments of forgetfulness because they can be signs of dementia onset.
While various factors play a role in cognitive decline, those who engage in challenging mental activities like crossword puzzles may maintain their cognitive function longer.
Early detection and management are essential to dementia and Alzheimer’s diagnoses.
Because these ailments impact all aspects of the life of the individual, the diagnosis, having and adhering to a plan can make managing the progression more effective.
While most people consider the physical and mental challenges associated with aging, the emotional life of seniors deserves attention.
Seniors are no strangers to loss.
As they age, more of their friends and family will proceed them in death.
Grief becomes a constant they must face as part of daily life.
As a result, seniors can benefit from the emotional support of loved ones, counselors, or grief support groups.
Additionally, those in a later stage of life often focus on leaving a legacy.
Consequently, sharing life lessons and stories can be beneficial for both allowing people to grieve and passing along values.
Although it is impossible to predict specifics each individual will face as they move from one stage of aging to another, it is important to prepare.
Having legal and financial affairs in order through estate planning is key to preparedness.
A last will and testament, power of attorney, and medical directive will all help establish comprehensive estate planning for death or incapacity.
Understanding what to expect in the different stages of aging can help you and your loved ones prepare for each new challenge.
If you or a loved one feels the need to prepare for possible challenges associated with aging, request a consultation with Harvest Law KC.
While aging is simply a part of life, your loved ones will still require support and care.
Understanding the needs of various aging stages can help in making proper preparations.
Taking action before social, health, and cognitive changes become obvious can provide greater financial and legal stability in each stage.
This post is for informational purposes only and does not provide legal advice. You should contact an attorney for advice concerning any particular issue or problem. Nothing herein creates an attorney-client relationship between Harvest Law KC and the reader.
Reference: Care Plans Now (Dec. 14, 2023) “Understanding the Different Stages of Aging and Their Needs”
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