Holistic Approach for Elder Care

Published: June 27, 2025.

The U.S population is aging. According to U.S Census Burueau, the older population has been growing for the past 100 years, but between 2010 and 2020, growth in the older population (65+) spiked tremendously, with both the largest-ever 10 year numeric gain from 5.7 million by 1990 to 15.5 million in 2020. Not only that, the older population also grew five times faster than the total population. Baby Boomers, those born between 1946 and 1964  have been identified as the largest contributers to this increase (census.gov). Advances in science and technology have improved the quality of  life and care older adults receive. This had led to older adults remaining in the workforce longer.

 

 Today's older Americans tend to be healthier and less likely to suffer from disabilities. Additionally, a shift in the nature of job, as well as morepolicies more flexibity in the workplace encourages greater independence in older adults. On average, more jobs have become "age friendly", involving less strenous physical activity (pewresearch.org). As life expentancy increases around the world, aging the in twenty-first century has become an "important demographic event". Elderly people need holistic (physical, spiritual, social and mental) care for their healthy ageing and qulaity of life. With the increase in elderly population, demand for health services and thus health spending has also increased.

 

Understanding how to care for seniors in a manner that aligns with their philosophy, taking care to protect and improve the health and well-being of the elderly, especially those suffering with Dementia and Alzheimer's by encouraging strong relationships through an active social life, particpation in community, healthy eating, exercise and end of life must be taken into consideration. Holistic care approach should be on the agenda of every nurse, health practioner, therapist and caregiver in advancing the health and well-being on the Elderly [3]. Prioritizing therapies and interventions that benefit from the healing effects of spending time in nature, including horticulture therapy and other evidenced-based healing methods should be included in the care of the elderly not only to improve the health of individuals being cared for, but also the caregivers.           

 

 

Sources Cited

 

1. Older Population and Aging. Retrieved from https://www.census.gov/topics/population/older-aging.html

 

2. The growth of the older workforce. Retrieved from https://www.pewresearch.org/social-trend/2023/12/14/the-growth-of-the-older-workforce

 

3. Advancing Well-Being and Health of Elderly with Integrative Nursing Principles. Retrieved from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8127598/