Primary Health Concerns For Baby Boomers. What We See as Patient Advocates – Part 1

As Patient Advocates, the majority of our clients are seniors and their adult children. Most of these are in the baby boomer generation.

Who are the Baby Boomers?

“Baby Boomers” is the nickname for those born between the years 1946 and 1964.  “Boomers” Comprise one of the largest generations in history (about 26% of the population).  Most are living longer than previous generations, and in the US currently, there are on average 10,000 adults turning 65 every day.

The longer a generation lives, the more likely it is to encounter various health problems. The most common health problems we support our clients with our Dementia,  Depression, Pain Management, and Stress.

Living With Dementia

Alzheimer’s disease, the most common cause of dementia in older adults, affects more than 6 million people mainly over the age of 65 in the United States. This disease affects memory, thinking, learning, and the ability to perform simple daily activities and develops in “stages”.

We support our clients, their caregivers & family by helping them strategize to stay in their homes as long as possible. Medication arranged in blister packs, decluttering the home & meal delivery can support aging in place.

Living with Loneliness, Isolation & Depression

Loneliness, Isolation, and Depression in seniors are very common,  especially in those individuals who are grieving and have multiple medical problems. To age in place or aging alone can be very overwhelming for seniors with depression. Even those that are on a good medical treatment plan could still be experiencing loneliness, isolation, or depression.

We support our clients, their caregivers & family by helping them with a plan of action to support their mental health and advocating for them with their healthcare team.

“Sandwich Generation” Living With The Stress

Many boomers end up caring for their elderly parents as well as their own families. Stress associated with dual caregiving roles can be overwhelming.

We work with those who continue to work and juggle other life challenges. We help families formulate a plan to take care of their family.

Living With Pain Management

It is very common for our clients who are over the age of 60 to have osteoarthritis, arthritis, degenerative joint disease, and some even joint replacements.  Most are also trying to juggle a pain management regimen with possible other medical problems. The reality is some are caregivers trying to care for themselves and their spouses.

As patient advocates, we support our clients in prioritizing a pain management regimen for them. Most will tell us if they can get their pain under control they can handle more of their life routines.

The bottom line is, that as long as you stay alive, the older you will get. Your risk of developing health issues will arise with each trip around the sun.  Whitley Patient Advocates can assist you In healthy aging and assist you with future plans to age in place.