The aging population is one that is sometimes neglected when it comes to proper healthcare. Fortunately, there have been some recent changes, especially from Medicare, that have had a lasting impact. These changes impact not only the lives of the elderly but the families of those senior citizens as well. Keep in mind that healthcare is always changing and that with new technological advances in medicine, it is likely that services offered will only get better in the future.
Long-Term Care
Even though their senses aren’t quite what they used to be, there are more people staying at home as they age instead of going to nursing homes. Despite this change, there is still a big need for nurse practitioners in the healthcare industry. Changes are due in part to Medicare and insurance companies approving in-home aides and nurses who visit the home to ensure that elderly individuals are safe and have the medical attention that they need in an environment where they feel comfortable. Medicaid has also started to cover more procedures and medical necessities for the elderly so that they have the proper testing and medications that are needed to live longer.
Diagnostics
Elderly individuals have sometimes taken a backseat to diagnostics. Doctors haven’t always treated this group in the same fashion as those who have better insurance coverage or who have the ability to recover from an injury or illness in a better way than someone who is older. However, with improved diagnostic equipment that delivers faster results and that is less invasive, doctors are now able to offer more solutions for elderly individuals. One of the ways that diagnostics have improved is in the area of x-ray scans. A radiologist with the proper training and degree, like a bachelor’s of radiation science technology, can use the latest equipment to x-ray specific areas of the body instead of scanning larger areas that might take longer and cost more money for the individual. X-rays and similar scans are also improving in how comfortable they are for the patient. Open tables allow for more room for the patient to lay comfortably, and x-ray machines have been condensed so that the technician can bring the machine to the patient.
Medications
From daily medications that provide calcium and essential vitamins for the body to medications that keep the heart and mind healthy, there are more options for elderly individuals who take prescriptions on a daily basis. These options allow seniors to decide which medications they can afford to take since doctors have an assortment of drugs that they can prescribe that have the same impacts on the body. Other treatment options, such as physical therapy, are more affordable as well.
Sometimes, the elderly are overlooked. Thanks to improvements in healthcare, there are more options for them to consider. They are now receiving some of the same medications and treatments that younger adults have, positively impacting their lives so that they live longer.
