Factors Which Influence Ageing
Theories Of Ageing, Dementia Task 3A, Ammaarah Sheikh
Factors which influence ageing can include socio-economic factors, living conditions, lifestyle and healthcare.
Socio-economic inequalities are raising up the policy agenda. In the Equality Bill 2009, the Government has proposed a new duty on public authorities to address socio-economic inequalities. This presents a major opportunity to move the agenda forward for people of all ages and can influence ageing extremely. However not all elderly have money and support to take care of them. Those who struggle with income may not be able to afford the right food, medicine and care which they essentially need; this can lead to the elderly’s healthcare to fall. Although if an elderly had a positive socio-economic background they would be able to afford care and necessary food and medicine they need to ensure their health is supported as much as possible.
Living conditions can influence an elderly greatly. For example if an elderly member lived in a large house on his own he may not be able to psychically move around as well without assistance. A small accommodation with support built in would be comfortable and ideal for the elderly to live in.
Lifestyle of the elderly can have great impact on them mentally and psychically. Being with company such as family and friends can mentally keep the elderly busy and active. Family and friends are there to support them where as if the elderly had no one and was in isolation they would not have any assistance or anyone to depend on.
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Changes in later life psychically and mentally can have a dramatic influence in ageing.
Physical changes can have a huge effect on the elderly, for example mobility and balance change can be a life changing factor. Mobility can limit them as they may have to rely on another so that they can do certain activities or even move, they’re ability to move as they age itself will gradually get more difficult.
Vision and hearing does gradually change during ageing. This can affect lifestyle factors such as driving, reading and listening to instructions which can lead to developing more limits with lifestyle choices.
Cognitive changes such as memory deteriorates during the ageing process which can lead to changing day to day lifestyle.