If we are fortunate, we experience the process of aging. However, each person ages differently. This month, AHomeCare focuses on the unique challenges women face as they age, ways to address these challenges, and how loved ones can provide support.
Physical Health As women age, there are several important health considerations to keep in mind:
Menopause: During menopause, the body experiences a decrease in estrogen and progesterone production, leading to physical and emotional symptoms such as hot flashes, mood changes, and vaginal dryness. Bone health: Women, especially after menopause, are more susceptible to osteoporosis, a condition characterized by decreased bone density. Estrogen plays a role in maintaining bone density, and a decline in estrogen levels increases the risk of fractures and bone loss. Heart health: Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in many countries, and the risk of developing it increases with age. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can help reduce this risk. It is important for women to have annual checkups with their doctors, even if they feel well. These checkups allow for health status assessments through physical exams, bloodwork, and other screenings. Additionally, doctors often inquire about family health history, as menopause symptoms, osteoporosis risk, and heart health can be influenced by genetics.
“Mental Health and Elder Abuse Studies from various countries indicate that older women are more likely than older men to experience stress, depression, and anxiety. Contributing factors can include hormonal changes, caregiving responsibilities, and social isolation. Older women may also have faced gender-based discrimination or violence throughout their lives, which can impact mental health at any age. Additionally, women have a higher vulnerability to developing cognitive impairment, including dementia, due to their longer life expectancy and age-related risks.
These factors make older women more susceptible to elder abuse compared to older men. Elder abuse, as defined by the World Health Organization, encompasses acts or lack of appropriate action that cause harm or distress to an older person within a relationship of trust. This abuse can manifest as physical, sexual, psychological, and emotional abuse, as well as financial and material abuse, neglect, abandonment, and loss of dignity and respect.
Women often assume the role of family caregivers and may neglect their own needs. It is crucial for women of all ages to prioritize their mental health alongside their physical well-being, as these aspects mutually influence each other.
Financial Security In general, older women tend to be less financially secure than older men. This can be attributed to several reasons, including:
Pay gap: Throughout their careers, women typically earn less than men, resulting in lower savings for retirement. Career breaks: Women are more likely to take breaks in their careers to care for children or family members, leading to reduced wages, lower retirement savings, and smaller pensions. Longer life expectancy: Women’s longer lifespan means they need to make their retirement savings last longer. Caregiver responsibilities: Women often assume caregiving roles for children, sick family members, or elderly relatives, which can result in reduced work hours, lost wages, and increased expenses. Without financial security in old age, women may be vulnerable to neglect or abuse, particularly if they outlive their spouse. Women should be aware of these challenges and take steps to plan and save for retirement throughout their lives and careers.
How to Support Women as They Age Loved ones can play a crucial role in supporting and advocating for women as they age. Here are some ways to provide assistance:
Encourage regular health screenings: Encourage your loved one to schedule routine checkups with her healthcare provider and offer to accompany her if desired. Address safety concerns: Stay vigilant for signs of abuse and speak up if you suspect your loved one is in danger. Help her find a safe place to stay if necessary
