Gerontology & Geriatric Research

Holistic Approaches to Geriatric Care

Xercia Frnni^* Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, USA
^*Correspondence: Xercia Frnni, Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, USA, Email:

Received: 01-Jun-2023, Manuscript No. jggr-23-22249; Editor assigned: 03-Jun-2023, Pre QC No. P-22249; Reviewed: 16-Jun-2023, QC No. Q-22249; Revised: 21-Jun-2023, Manuscript No. R-22249; Published: 28-Jun-2023, DOI: 10.35248/2167-7182.2023.12.679

Description

The world's population is aging rapidly, leading to an increase in the number of older adults who require specialized healthcare. Geriatric care, which focuses on addressing the unique physical, emotional, and social needs of older individuals, has become a critical area of concern in the healthcare industry. Traditional medical models often fall short in providing comprehensive care for older adults, leading to the emergence of holistic approaches to geriatric care. This essay explores the concept of holistic care and its application in geriatrics, highlighting its benefits, challenges, and potential future developments [1,2].

Holistic care is a philosophy that views individuals as complex beings with interconnected physical, psychological, and social aspects. In the context of geriatric care, this approach acknowledges that older adults have diverse needs that extend beyond their medical conditions. Holistic geriatric care aims to promote overall well-being, independence, and quality of life for older individuals, recognizing that health issues in later life are often multifaceted and intertwined. A key principle of holistic geriatric care is individualized and person-cantered care. Rather than treating older adults solely as patients with specific medical conditions, this approach considers their preferences, values, lifestyle, and social support systems. It involves active communication and collaboration with older adults and their families, ensuring they are active participants in the decision-making process. By recognizing the unique circumstances of each older individual, holistic geriatric care seeks to provide personalized care plans tailored to their specific needs.

Holistic geriatric care encompasses traditional medical treatments and therapies to address specific health conditions. However, it goes beyond merely managing symptoms and includes considering the individual's overall health and well-being. Mental health plays a crucial role in the well-being of older adults. Holistic geriatric care involves addressing emotional issues such as depression, anxiety, and grief. Mental health professionals work in tandem with medical practitioners to provide comprehensive support. Social isolation and loneliness are common issues among older adults. Holistic care seeks to foster a sense of community and belonging by engaging older adults in social activities, support groups, and intergenerational programs. Nutrition becomes increasingly important in later life. Holistic geriatric care includes dietary assessments and personalized nutrition plans to address individual nutritional needs and promote overall health. Encouraging regular physical activity tailored to each older adult's abilities can improve mobility, prevent falls, and enhance overall well-being.

Insufficient sleep has been linked to various physical health issues. In children and adolescents, chronic sleep deprivation is associated with impaired growth, weakened immune function, increased risk of obesity, and elevated blood pressure. In adults, inadequate sleep has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, weight gain, and compromised immune function. Older adults who experience poor sleep are at a higher risk of falls, cognitive decline, and mortality. Sleep plays a crucial role in cognitive processes such as attention, memory consolidation, and learning. In children, sleep deprivation can lead to difficulties in academic performance, attention deficits, and behavioural problems. Similarly, inadequate sleep in adults negatively affects cognitive function, including attention, decisionmaking, problem-solving, and memory recall. Older adults with sleep disturbances are more susceptible to cognitive decline and an increased risk of developing neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. The relationship between sleep and mental health is bidirectional.

Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia and sleep pane, are common in individuals with mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. Conversely, chronic sleep deprivation or poor sleep quality can contribute to the development or exacerbation of mental health issues. Adequate and restorative sleep is vital for emotional regulation, mood stability, and overall mental well-being across all age. Holistic approaches to geriatric care are gaining recognition as essential models for addressing the complex needs of older adults. By considering the physical, psychological, and social aspects of aging, holistic care aims to enhance the overall well-being and quality of life of older individuals. While challenges and limitations exist, the ongoing integration of holistic principles into healthcare systems, advancements in technology, and increased research can shape the future of geriatric care, providing older adults with the comprehensive support they deserve in their later years [3-5].

Acknowledgement

None.

Conflict of Interest

None.

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