As people age, their resistance decreases and the physiological functions of various organs decline. Therefore, it is important to arrange the daily life of the elderly in a reasonable manner.
The elderly should live in a harmonious family environment and be respected by their children and relatives in order to maintain a positive mental state. Daily life should have a certain routine and include a variety of indoor and outdoor activities based on their physical condition.
The living space for the elderly should be arranged in a sunny room with simple and easily accessible furniture. It is important to open the windows for ventilation in the morning and evening to keep the indoor air fresh, which helps to keep the mind clear and the body comfortable. It is recommended to have a regular sleep schedule, going to bed and waking up early, to form a conditioned reflex that promotes easy sleep and prevents insomnia. It is also advisable to avoid drinking tea or excessive water after dinner to prevent sleep disturbances caused by excitement or frequent urination at night. Soaking feet in hot water before bedtime can also facilitate sleep. The amount of sleep needed may vary from person to person, but it is generally recommended to have 5-8 hours of sleep per day, waking up feeling refreshed and energized.
As people age, their basal metabolism and digestive functions gradually decrease. Therefore, the diet for the elderly should be low in calories, low in fat, low in cholesterol, and rich in protein, vitamins, and moderate amounts of minerals. The food should be cooked, soft, and easy to digest, such as steamed buns, milk, soy milk, and soy products. It is not advisable to eat raw, cold, hard, spicy, or spoiled food. Fresh vegetables and fruits are not only rich in vitamins and minerals, but also contain fiber and pectin, which can prevent habitual constipation and colon cancer. Regular and moderate meals, with three meals a day, are recommended. Elderly individuals, especially those of advanced age, may benefit from eating smaller meals more frequently.
The elderly have a lower ability to withstand cold temperatures, so they should adjust their clothing according to the season and climate to prevent catching a cold. The clothing should be loose, light, and comfortable to wear, with a simple style that is easy to put on and take off. Undergarments should preferably be made of cotton fabric, as synthetic fabrics can cause skin irritation due to static electricity. Shoes with fabric soles are recommended as they are lightweight and slip-resistant, while shoes with hard plastic soles should be avoided.
With age, the elderly may experience reduced vision and hearing, weak muscles, decreased joint flexibility, slow movements, poor coordination and balance, and poor regulation of cerebral blood vessels. Standing up suddenly can cause temporary cerebral hypoperfusion, leading to dizziness and instability, resulting in collisions or falls. Additionally, elderly individuals are more prone to fractures due to osteoporosis and calcium loss. Therefore, the elderly should walk and sit slowly, especially when getting up at night, as most falls occur during this time. When getting up, it is advisable to first sit up from a lying position, pause for a moment, then stand up, and walk after a while. For older adults, it is recommended to have a bedside commode for easier access to the toilet.
