Moul Mouj Health Corner

 It is encouraging to see adult children increasingly asking about the health concerns of their aging parents and grandparents. This has sparked meaningful discussions and promoted a greater sense of responsibility. However, we kindly request that you mention the age of the senior patient about whom you have a question.

 Q: My father (85 years) often wakes up at night to pass urine many times. Is it normal at his age?

A: Frequent urination at night, called nocturia, is common in elders but not always “normal.” It may be due to prostate problems in men, diabetes, heart or kidney conditions, or certain medications. Reduce evening fluids, avoid caffeine and get him medically evaluated to rule out treatable causes.

Q: My elderly mother has stopped walking outside, saying she feels weak and tired. What should we do?

A: Sudden loss of stamina may be due to liver issues, anemia, thyroid imbalance, heart disease, or nutritional deficiencies. Encourage gentle indoor movement, ensure she eats balanced meals, and get a basic health check-up. Sometimes, a simple correction of vitamins or medicines restores energy.

Q: My grandfather’s (87 years) hands shake when he tries to hold a cup. Is this Parkinson’s disease?

A: Not always. Tremors in elders may come from Parkinson’s, thyroid imbalance, medications, or just benign essential tremor. Notice if tremors occur at rest or during movement, and consult a doctor. Early detection of Parkinson’s helps in better management.

Q: My mother keeps saying food tastes bland even though we cook normally. Why is this happening?

A: Taste and smell often decline with age, or due to dentures, zinc deficiency, or certain medicines. This may reduce appetite and nutrition. Add natural herbs, lemon, or mild spices to food and get her evaluated if this persists.

Q: My elderly father (78 years) keeps asking the same question repeatedly. Should we be worried?

A: Repetition may signal memory loss or early dementia. First, rule out depression, thyroid imbalance, vitamin B12 deficiency or medication side effects. If memory decline continues, seek professional assessment. Early care and memory training make a big difference.

Q: My grandmother feels dizzy whenever she stands up suddenly. Is it serious?

A: This could be postural hypotension—a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing. It may be linked to dehydration, diabetes, or blood pressure medicines. Encourage her to get up slowly, drink enough fluids, and review her medicines with a doctor.

Q: My ageing mother gets constipation despite eating well. What can we do?

A: Constipation is very common in seniors due to low fibre, less water, inactivity, or medicines like painkillers. Encourage whole grains, vegetables, fruits and adequate fluids. Regular walks and stool-friendly habits (like a fixed toilet time) help. Avoid frequent laxatives without medical advice.

Q: My father (65 years) feels sleepy in the day but says he cannot sleep at night. Why?

A: Ageing alters sleep cycles. Daytime naps, depression, or sleep apnea may worsen insomnia. Keep a regular bedtime, reduce late caffeine, ensure exposure to daylight and encourage light evening activity. Persistent sleep issues should be medically assessed.

Q: My grandmother’s ankles swell every evening. Is it only because of age?

A: In seniors, swelling may happen after long sitting and often eases when lying down. But sudden or persistent swelling can signal heart, kidney, or vein issues, or medication side effects. Elevate legs, reduce salt, and see a doctor—never ignore sudden swelling.

Q: My father (67 years) avoids social gatherings and prefers isolation. Should we let him be?

A: Isolation in seniors often signals depression, hearing loss, or fear of falling. It worsens memory decline and health. Encourage gentle social interactions, involve him in family discussions, and rule out treatable causes like hearing issues or low mood.

Q: I am 64 years and have frequent body aches though my reports are normal. Why?

A: Generalised body pains in seniors may come from vitamin D deficiency, arthritis, fibromyalgia, or even depression. Normal tests do not always mean nothing is wrong. Gentle stretches, sunlight, and a doctor’s evaluation can help find hidden causes.

Q: I (72 years) forget to drink water and ends up dehydrated. Any tips?

A: Seniors often lose the natural “thirst signal.” Place water bottles within reach in front of you and take sips frequently. Also take watery foods like fruits, soups, and curd, and set family reminders. Dehydration can trigger confusion, falls, or urinary problems in elders.

Q: I (62-year female) keep worrying excessively about small matters. Is this age-related?

A: Anxiety can increase with ageing, especially if seniors face loneliness, illness, or uncertain finances. Do things you like, do routine activities and relaxation methods like faith-based activities. Take nutritious diet and do daily walk. If anxiety affects sleep or daily life, seek medical advice.

Q: Can an elderly person recover well after surgery?

A: Yes, with proper pre-operative assessment and aftercare. Seniors have reduced reserves, so careful planning of nutrition, mobility, and medicines is crucial. Rehabilitation is slower but very effective with family support. Never deny surgery just because of age.

Q: My grandmother keeps asking for very sweet foods. Should we allow it?

A: Craving sweets may indicate uncontrolled diabetes, taste changes, or emotional comfort-seeking. Occasional treats are fine, but balance with fruits, nuts and healthy snacks. Monitor sugar levels if she is diabetic.

Q: My father (79 years) coughs often at night. Could it be old age or something else?

A: Persistent cough in elders could be from acid reflux, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or heart failure—not just “age.” Avoid self-medicating with cough syrups. Identify the cause and treat it early.

Q: My elderly mother’s skin has become very dry and itchy. What can help?

A: Elderly skin loses natural oils, making dryness common. Use lukewarm water, mild soaps, and daily moisturizers. Ensure hydration and check for diabetes or kidney disease if itching persists.

Q: I (68 year) keep dozing off while watching TV. Is that harmful?

A: Occasional dozing is harmless. But frequent daytime sleepiness may indicate poor night sleep, sleep apnea, or medication side effects. If you snore heavily or wake tired, get yourself evaluated.

Q: My elderly mother says she feels dizzy after taking her BP medicine. Should we stop it?

A: Never stop medicines suddenly. Dizziness may mean the dose is too strong or taken on an empty stomach. Consult the doctor to adjust dosage. Blood pressure control is vital for stroke and heart protection.

Q: My ageing father complains that “nobody listens” to him. What should we do?

A: Emotional neglect is as harmful as physical neglect. Make eye contact, give him time to finish sentences and involve him in family decisions. Sometimes just listening with patience is the best medicine.

Note: These responses are for general awareness. Always consult a doctor for medical advice tailored to individual needs.

Ask your questions at: WhatsApp: 6005463346, Email: ask@moulmoujfoundation.org