Anaemia in the Elderly: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Anaemia is a common morbidity in elderly people (i.e., people who belong to the age group of 60 years or higher). Present-day knowledge is that senescence is the consequence of homeostatic interference. The processes responsible for maintaining it comprise hormones, immune-regulating mechanisms along with oxidative stress/antioxidant equilibrium. Anaemia is caused by any change in these factors. The moment anaemia comes into the picture, it hampers the supply of oxygen causing further deterioration, culminating in debility and infirmity. Anaemia in the senile citizens can lead to certain adverse health events, including functional dependence and may amplify the risks of therapeutic complications, falls, dementia and mortality. Anaemia has a high potential of producing serious impediments in elderly people when compared with younger adults. As a result of which, the Quality Of Life (QOL) of the senescent age group is adversely affected. Hence, early diagnosis of anaemia aids in preventing unforeseen medical situations later. More emphasis is being given to this aspect because of the fact that despite its fair prevalence amongst the elderly, the chances of it being missed on routine clinical examinations are higher.

Keywords

• ageing
• community-health
• geriatric-health
• nutrition