Agenda - 09-06-1983 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Btflat_Itle_EROMEM_AtOINS1__EREYENIION Litesamas America' s lifestyles contribute, in large measure, to many of the disabling conditions which we suffer in our later years. Thus, discussion of trie health, and resulting health care needs of the state's future elderly population must focus, in part, on the lifestyles of its younger population. As the report of the Commission on the Future neted, such preventive measures as exercise, proper nutrition and weight control, stress management.and the elimination of substance abuse (including the unnecessary or excessive use of medications) should be promoted in the public and private sectors, and early education about the health effects of these factors should be part of the public school curriculum. Anclx-Irdscimal4n Once health1 problems do develop, their identification and early treatment can often retard further deterioration. Yet, because of financial limitartions, many older persons do not get the primary health care which can identify potential problems before they become severe. Particular ttention should be given to the medication regimens of older adults. Because they often suffer from chronic and acute illnesses, many elder persons take a number of medications. The effects of medication can vary widely with the age of the patient. Yet, the health personnel prescribing and dispensing such medications frequently are not well enough informed about the effects of the medications on older persons, possible drug interactions, or the special difficulties an older person may encounter in managing a number of medication types and dosages. A related naed concerns the costs of medication for older adults. Because they often need large quantities of medications over long periods of time, ! this is a particularly important concern for older persons. Often, a little more thought given by the physician to such things as the brand of medication prescribed or to the frequency with which he has the ' prescription refilled can result in considerable cost savings. IOadegVNIS—IDGDW--01=12C—I2—Ind212201121MS An adequate ; income is essential to the well—being and continued independence of Older adults. It is well documented that when an older person has enough money for daily needs there is less demand for a variety of community services. Since such services are expensive to provide, it is cost effective for older individuals to be able to pay for ordinary needs of daily living, leaving the agencies free to concentrate on special needs that require special expertise. With about BO percent of the supportive needs of older persons provided by families and friends, a guaranteed income would enhance the informal support system. 14