However, it has been observed globally that older people consume the most health expenditures out of any other age group.

Traditionally, care for older adults has been the responsibility of family members and was provided within the extended family home. Increasingly in modern societies, care is now being provided by Home care services or Assisted care givers or charitable institutions. The reasons for this change include decreasing family size, greater life expectancy, the geographical dispersion of families.

Many elderly people gradually lose functioning ability and require either additional assistance in the home or a move to an eldercare facility. Their adult children often find it challenging to help their elderly parents make the right choices. Assisted living is one option for the elderly who need assistance with everyday tasks.

Older adults are scared of losing their independence more than they fear death. Promoting independence in self-care can provide older adults with the capability to maintain independence longer and can leave them with a sense of achievement when they complete a task unaided.

The warning signs to watch out for Elderly population is physical problems, Cognitive problems & Emotional problems.

Physical problems – Chronic health problems often come about as people age and are unable to perform many of the activities they once could. Their bodies may become more fragile, more rigid, and less resilient. Chronic illnesses may cause secondary impairments, or new illnesses to develop. Disease-related physical impairments may be easy to spot or may be subtler.

Cognitive problems – Although cognitive problems, at least in their mildest form, some cognitive problems may impair a his or her ability to live safely and independently. Cognitive problems may cause memory problems, difficulty with language, difficulty making judgments, and difficulty regulating emotions, just to name a few. Mild dementia may not require elder care, but any type of dementia that is progressive and causes serious safety concerns must be addressed.

Emotional problems – A decline in health, the loss of a spouse, the inability to do things once enjoyed, or the feelings of unimportance are all issues that may cause your loved one to experience emotional problems.

Emotional problems may manifest themselves in a number of ways. For example, your loved one may become socially withdrawn, moody or irritable, or may even have suicidal thoughts.

Many seniors deny the existence or severity of emotional problems, which makes the thoughtful observations of physicians and family members all the more important.

“Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter.” ~Mark Twain

Ageing is a natural process, which begins at conception and continues till we live. Our body changes continuously to keep us alive and ticking constantly adapting to the environment it is exposed to. In this process various biological, physical, and mental changes take place. Good nutrition helps in slowing down degradation and maintaining good health. It promotes a positive state of mind, which in turn influences the choices we make in life. One can choose to just spend his days worrying about his health and future OR nurture his health and continue contributing to the society with the same fervor.

Seniors often complain of issues like weakness, tiredness, loss of appetite, poor digestion, allergies, vision problems, forgetfulness, frequent infections, and lack of interest in self- care due to loneliness. Poor nutrition, lack of exercise and reduced social interactions are usually to be blamed for these. Chronic ailments like Diabetes, Hypertension, Kidney disorders, Gastric issues additionally require special care and changes in the diet.

The main objective behind a good diet is correcting or avoiding nutritional deficiencies, maintaining an appropriate weight and nutritional status, preserving lean body mass, and enhancing immunity. The diet provided must be customized to suit one’s tastes, religious preferences, availability, and tolerances as far as possible to maximize the quality of life.

As one ages there may be increased use of medications. Formulating diet which compliments the medications taken, rather than hinder their action and at the same time provide right nutrition is very essential. Regular monitoring and follow ups ensure adherence to the prescribed diet and exercise schedule.

“Health is a state of complete harmony of the body, mind and spirit. When one is free from physical disabilities and mental distractions, the gates of the soul open.” ~B.K.S. Iyengar