Health problems of older persons.

Health problems among elderly persons are both physical and mental. About 16 percent of the elderly have no easily identifiable gross local pathologies of the major organs or tissues. We refer to their decreased agility, mentation, and metabolic efficiencies as senescence and label their problems gerontologic. Their management requires sensitive professional care in terms of time, tolerance, and holistic metabolic evaluation. This gerontologic group is generally not sick, nor in grave need of specific drugs, surgery, or specialized therapies. Homeostasis and equanimity by diet, regular exercise, sound body care, and social adjustment should be maintained, preferably in their home instead of in an institution. For the 84 percent of the elderly who show gross pathologies, properly trained and oriented physicians in geriatrics are needed. Any tissue and/or organ of the body may show disequilibrium or gross pathology. Geriatric patients need sympathy and skill not only from members of the medical and nursing profession but from the community as well. Social attitudes should ensure them proper care at a price they can afford.