The aches, pains and woes of growing old have come under focus as medics and health care operatives look at the best way to care for an ever aging population.
It has been suggested that healthcare centres in Bahrain begin special ‘frailty’ screening of elderly patients, especially those aged around 80.
Geriatric medicine consultant and Government Hospitals geriatric unit head Dr Mahmood Alsaeed said that doctors need to be aware on what the specific symptoms are and how to deal with the issues.
He spoke during a lecture titled ‘Strengthening Care for Frail Seniors: Primary Care Solutions’, which was held during a recent conference in Manama.
“As the population ages, the prevalence of frailty among seniors’ poses significant challenges to healthcare systems,” he said.
“In Bahrain, it is estimated that up to 10 per cent of the elderly population aged less than 80-year-old have frailty. Additionally, it is estimated that up to 26pc of people aged 80 and above live with the condition.
“Thus, it is important to screen and explore innovative strategies to enhance the quality of care provided to this vulnerable population.”
In medical terms, frailty is defined as a condition where the body cannot get through and recover from illnesses and injuries on its own. The body becomes more vulnerable with frailty, making it harder to recover from health issues. If it worsens, it can result in disabilities.
Symptoms include frequently feeling fatigued or exhausted, muscle weakness, reduction in strength, slow movement, having trouble with balance, urinary or bowel incontinence and social isolation.
The patient may also need help with daily activities such as feeding, dressing and bathing. Additionally, they may be losing weight without trying.
According to Dr Alsaeed, Clinical Frailty is measured on a scale from one to nine, with one being ‘very fit’ and nine being ‘terminally ill’.
“People on the lower end of the scale are robust, active, energetic and motivated,” said Dr Alsaeed. “They exercise regularly and are strong and fit for their age.
“In the middle of the scale, people tend to be living with mild frailty, show evident slowing and need help with high order activities such as transportation or heavy lifting.
“On the higher end tends to be patients approaching the end of their lives, usually those with a life expectancy of about six months or less. Some of them might also live with severe dementia.”
Dr Alsaeed recommended some ways which people living with the condition could still live out a fulfilling life despite their age.
“Exercise. Then Exercise. Then Exercise,” he said. “Patients may not be able to meet minimum activity levels, but even modest activity helps.
“Start low and go slow. Focus on doing your daily activities to the best of your ability. Ensure specific focus on balance and resistance training, around two to three times a week even that is enough.”
Dr Alsaeed also emphasised the role of primary care providers in early identification, comprehensive assessment and personalised care planning.
He stated that by implementing evidence-based practices and fostering collaboration among healthcare professionals, Bahrain can improve health outcomes and enhance the quality of life for frail seniors.
“There are several geriatric clinics in the country that can work together to provide the best possible treatment options,” he said. “Together, we can perform regular frailty screenings and come up with practical solutions and exercise programmes for seniors.
“If professionals can co-operate, we can ensure that senior citizens in Bahrain can live their best lives possible.”
nader@gdnmedia.bh
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