Are we ready for that? Probably not.. this is an ongoing issue and point of discussion.
The National Council On Aging (NCOA) has published a survey
on Aging in America. The NCOA, UnitedHealthcare, and USA TODAY a conducted
telephone survey with 4,000 U.S. adults in 2013. Participating cities were
Birmingham, Indianapolis, Los Angeles, Orlando, San Antonio. I am quoting from
the website NCOA website (see link below).
The goal was to better understand the American seniors’
perspective on aging.
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| Staying connected means quality of life! |
Here the most interesting findings:
What is most important to maintaining a high quality of life
in your senior years?
- Top Answer: 40% say: staying connected to friends and family
- 30% say: having financial means
Health:
Being optimistic about aging is connected with setting
specific health goals:
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| Aging in America |
"Nearly two-thirds (64%) of optimistic seniors have set one or more specific goals to manage their health in the past 12 months, compared with 47% of the overall senior population."
Who do seniors believe to be responsible for their needs:
- 71% of seniors feel the community they live in is responsive to their needs
- 49% believe their community is doing enough to prepare for the future needs of the growing senior population
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| Don't Worry! Be Happy! |
Positive Outlook on aging
- 57% of seniors state that overall, the past year of their life has been “normal”
- 51% of seniors expect their quality of life to stay about the same during the next 5 to 10 years
- 21% expect it to get much or somewhat better
Seniors and Technology
- 34% of seniors cite “I don’t understand how to use it” as a barrier preventing them from using more technology
- 47% of low-income seniors quote financial reasons for not using technology
Check out their fact sheet for more information.
In summary, what remains the most important for a high quality of life is the sense of connectedness to others.
Life is all about relationships and this does not change with aging.
If anything, the need to be connected to others increases.
Many elderly are isolated (see previous post) and suffer from this tremendously.
Technology may be one way to stay connected to others. With computers, tablets and smart phones people don't even have to leave their living rooms in order to see their loved ones. It may not be the exact same as in person but it is a pretty good substitute!
Now, we only have to figure out how to overcome the barriers to technology for the elderly.
The vast majority of surveyed seniors believe that their communities are responsible for their needs and at the same time only half of the surveyed think that the communities are doing enough in that regard.
This is a great challenge. Especially with the expected rise in older population. Generation Baby Boom is on the rise... they are beginning to age. Slowly but surely.
How can communities prepare?
Where is the money going to come from?
What is the solution?
I believe that people should really think things through and plan ahead.
Yes, surely, communities and our society should do their parts, however, so should the individual.
First steps in planning for aging
Start planning while you are still "young old" and while you can voice your concerns and questions. Discuss with your loved ones early on what is important to you and what expectations you have.
- Think about what options you have.
- Consider a consult with a social worker. Social workers can be amazing resources.
- Consider seeing a Geriatrician who may point out things you did not consider (check my post).
- Consider developing a relationship with a private pay / long-term insurance paid home health aide / personal care aide to learn the system with its limitations and understand your options.
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| There is Hope! |
Overall, most seniors maintain a positive outlook on life and are expecting to do well.
And isn't that wonderful? I think it is. In the end of the day, this is a great quote:
"Don't worry! Be happy!"
I wish you all the best!
Be well,
Dr. B
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