The alarming reality of preventable death due to social factors is unfortunately all too common. Despite the many advances in modern medicine, the availability of health care, and treatment options for terminal illnesses and conditions, millions of older people around the world are still at risk of dying prematurely from what could be thought of as social causes. In this article, we’ll look at seven such social factors that increase the risk of premature death in seniors. We will explore potential measures that could help reduce these risks. We may not be able to resolve all societal discrepancies overnight, but understanding how they affect our mortality can equip us with valuable insights into how best to address them.
The study conducted by the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and the University of California found that seven social factors can contribute significantly to premature death in older adults. It is :
Lack of social contacts:
This study showed that older people who do not leave their homes often enough to interact with other people are at greater risk of premature death than those who remain socially active. This lack of human connection can be particularly harmful for people with pre-existing mental health issues such as depression, anxiety or loneliness.
To live alone :
Seniors who live alone tend to report higher levels of loneliness and isolation than those who live with family members or friends. This isolation can also lead to poor physical health due to lack of care and support from others. In fact, this study showed that older people who live alone have a much higher risk of premature death than those who live with other people.
A dirty environment:
Maintaining a clean home is important for overall health and well-being, but it becomes even more important as people get older. Poor living conditions, such as an unclean environment, can contribute to higher rates of infection or disease, which can ultimately lead to premature death in older people.
Bad nutrition :
Eating habits tend to deteriorate with age, leading to malnutrition and deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals which can increase the risk of serious diseases like heart disease or cancer. In addition, excessive consumption of processed foods contributes to obesity and other lifestyle diseases, further increasing mortality rates among the elderly community.
Financial difficulties :
Financial hardship is often associated with aging populations due to declining income or insufficient savings. This can lead to stress and depression, which further increases the risk of premature death. In addition, financial hardship can also prevent older people from seeking medical help when needed or buying necessary medications in time. Both of these scenarios put them at increased risk of serious illnesses, which can lead to an earlier than expected death.
The absence of children:
The study found that older people who do not have children around show signs of emotional distress more often than those who have small children present. This emotional stress has been linked to higher death rates in older adults due to its effects on physical health and well-being over time.
Do not volunteer:
Volunteer work has been proven to benefit the physical and mental well-being of older people. Not only does it provide them with opportunities for socialization, but it also helps them stay mentally active by providing them with meaningful tasks that restore structure and purpose to their lives – essential for the longevity of aging communities.
How could an elderly person live a fulfilling life and reduce the risk of an early death?
A potential wellness measure to reduce the risk of premature death in older adults is to maintain a healthy diet. A balanced diet that includes plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can promote longevity and reduce the risk of chronic disease. Additionally, regular physical activity is essential to keep your body strong and healthy as you age. Exercise such as walking, swimming, or cycling can help keep bones, muscles, and joints in good shape, improve balance, improve mood, and reduce stress levels. Seniors should also keep up to date with screenings, such as mammograms and prostate exams, as recommended by their doctor.
Personal growth measures such as cognitive training may also be beneficial in reducing the risk of premature death in older people. Cognitive activities such as reading, puzzles, crosswords, card games, or anything that boosts mental acuity help keep our minds active, which can improve brain health in old age. Additionally, nurturing meaningful relationships with family members or friends can provide emotional support that can increase well-being and even extend lifespan. Finally, engaging in hobbies or activities that bring joy is important for promoting positive mental and emotional health in older adults.
