Final answer:
Elderly adults often face impairments due to a decline in immune system efficiency, decreased brain cells leading to cognitive impairments, physical decline like reduced muscle mass, and higher risk of diseases such as cancer and arthritis. Alzheimer's disease and dementia are more prevalent and serious in older age. Various factors such as diet and environmental exposures influence these risks, and cognitive rehabilitation shows promise in managing mild impairments.
Step-by-step explanation:
As people enter old age, their bodies undergo various changes that can lead to impairments.
One of the primary reasons is the decline in the efficiency of the immune system, which results in an increased risk of serious illnesses such as cancer and pneumonia.
Moreover, the number of brain cells decreases with age, leading to cognitive impairments. Nearly half of the individuals over the age of 85 exhibit at least mild cognitive impairment.
Furthermore, conditions like Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia cause permanent and serious loss of mental function and are more prevalent in the elderly population.
The physical capabilities of elder adults also decline, with common issues including reduced muscle mass and slower reflexes. Health conditions such as arthritis become more common, contributing to joint stiffness and pain.
Additionally, environmental and nutritional factors can influence the risk of diseases. For instance, exposure to lead, iron, and zinc increases the risk, while adherence to a Mediterranean diet can decrease it.
Cognitive rehabilitation, including the use of virtual reality, has potential as a treatment method to offset mild cognitive impairments and prevent their progression into dementia.
Elder adults also face psychosocial challenges, such as ageism and potential elder abuse, especially as they become more physically frail and dependent on caregivers.
Understanding the social and emotional aspects of aging is crucial in addressing the well-being of elderly individuals and encouraging the continuation of meaningful activities and social connectedness.