Not being able to provide the one thing they/we all will need: custodial care assistance. Many are spry through their nineties, most are not and become slaves to the options of give up your home and move into the pre-death factories, folks believe are nursing homes. In my area, it does not seem that elders are honored and cared for as they are in other cultures. When people have no/limited resources, options, guidance or support, it is so painful to see the final struggles just to live with dignity.
Falls, poly pharmacy, multiple co morbidity, lack of planning for aging
- The care of the elderly is multidisciplinary: chronic illnesses, social care, autonomy, age related risks, etc. - Old age is generally equated with a disability. - Today, the care of geriatric patients is structured with the development of home care. - The work of geriatric caregivers? Often poorly perceived, it is nevertheless very versatile and technical. - Coordination of care: patients can be hospitalized and undergo examinations in different health establishments. - In conclusion, the challenge for geriatric caregivers is based on the need to combine specialized medical and paramedical skillss with adaptability to the diversity of the needs of the elderly.
Empathy.
The geriatric population is very challenging because most or all have co-morbidity with multiple meducations, but despite being sick they want their independence, they are very smart and have a good sense of humor, they are prone to accidents, dehydration, and pressure ulcers for bedridden, wandering for people with dementia. They need recreational activities every day and family and loved ones to get involved in their care.
Falls , poly pharmacy, multiple co morbities
The biggest challenges I have found working geriatrics is the doctors, staff shortages and dealing with pharmacies that don’t seem concerned about patients meds!
I love working with this population but there is always a shortage in staffing. Very dangerous patient to staff ratios and usually the pay doesn’t add up to the amount of work you do. It’s hard to give good quality care to a family member when you have really heavy assignment with a variable patient acuity.
Mobility, communication, and nutrition/hydration
The only challenge faced at my level is not being paid well enough.
