Healthy aging is an important public health issue, both nationally and internationally. The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes healthy aging as a process whereby all people of all ages are able to live a healthy, safe and socially inclusive lifestyle.
Discuss how social determinants of health for the older adult are impacted for those living in poverty.
Instructions:
Word limit 500 words. Please make sure to provide citations and references (in APA, 7th ed. format)
Title: Impact of Poverty on Social Determinants of Health for Older Adults
Introduction
Healthy aging is a global public health concern, and the World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes it as a process that enables individuals of all ages to live healthy, safe, and socially inclusive lives. However, this goal becomes challenging for older adults living in poverty, as they face a multitude of barriers to accessing essential resources and services necessary for maintaining their health and well-being. This essay discusses how social determinants of health for older adults are impacted by poverty, highlighting the adverse effects on their physical, psychological, and social aspects of life.
Social Determinants of Health and Poverty
Social determinants of health refer to the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age, which significantly influence their health outcomes. For older adults, social determinants include factors such as socioeconomic status, access to healthcare, housing, education, and social support. Poverty, as a significant social determinant of health, profoundly affects older adults’ quality of life and exacerbates health disparities.
Impact on Physical Health
Older adults living in poverty often experience reduced access to nutritious food, adequate healthcare, and suitable living conditions. This lack of access can lead to malnutrition, chronic health conditions, and increased susceptibility to infectious diseases. Research has shown that older adults in poverty have higher rates of chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases (WHO, 2020). Additionally, limited access to healthcare services results in delayed medical treatment, further compromising their physical health.
Impact on Psychological Health
The stress and anxiety associated with poverty can have detrimental effects on the mental health of older adults. Constant financial strain, social isolation, and feelings of helplessness can lead to depression and anxiety disorders. Studies have demonstrated that poverty among older adults is associated with higher rates of depression and an increased risk of suicide (Bartels, 2021). Furthermore, the fear of being a burden on their families or communities can further exacerbate mental health issues, leading to a vicious cycle of declining well-being.
Impact on Social Well-being
Poverty often restricts older adults from participating in social activities and accessing community support networks. Social isolation can lead to a lack of emotional support and meaningful interactions, negatively affecting their overall well-being. Additionally, financial constraints may prevent them from engaging in leisure activities or accessing necessary transportation, leading to further isolation (Dang et al., 2017). This lack of social engagement and support can lead to feelings of loneliness and a decline in cognitive functions.
Conclusion
The impact of poverty on the social determinants of health for older adults is substantial and multi-faceted. It affects their physical health by limiting access to nutritious food and healthcare, their psychological health through increased stress and mental health disorders, and their social well-being through isolation and limited community engagement. Addressing the issue of poverty among older adults requires a comprehensive approach that includes targeted social welfare programs, affordable healthcare, and initiatives to reduce social isolation.
To improve the health and well-being of older adults living in poverty, it is essential for governments, organizations, and communities to work together to create inclusive and supportive environments that cater to the unique needs of this vulnerable population. By recognizing and addressing the impact of poverty on social determinants of health, we can strive towards achieving the WHO’s vision of healthy aging for all individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic status.
References:
World Health Organization (WHO). (2020). Ageing and health. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/ageing-and-health
Bartels, S. J. (2021). Mental Health Services for Older Adults in Poverty-Affordable Care for an Increasing Priority. JAMA psychiatry, 78(3), 255-256.
Dang, M. T., Nguyen, H. T., & Nakamura, N. (2017). Social isolation and loneliness among Vietnamese older adults: the role of social support. Journal of cross-cultural gerontology, 32(4), 463-487.