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Anticipate
Special Needs - Disabilities on the Rise
While
medical and technological advancements have raised life expectancy,
the incidence of physical and mental disability in older age
is rising, too, so needs have to be factored in.
In
1997, 82 per cent of seniors living at home reported that they
had been diagnosed with at least one chronic health condition.
Arthritis and rheumatism are the most chronic health problems
reported by seniors4
The
Alzheimer Society reports that 364,000 people over age 65
in Canada suffer from Alzheimer’s or related dementia,
multiple strokes and conditions such as Parkinson’s.
Experts estimate that as many as half of all patients in long-term
care facilities in Canada have Alzheimer’s, and that
by 2031, over 750,000 Canadians will have Alzheimer’s
and related dementias.5
Talking
About Aging: Breaking the ice
Discussing
the issues of aging with your parents and siblings requires tact
and sensitivity. It can sometimes be difficult. But the topic
of aging is important to address well before the onset of both
age-related physical conditions and the emotional stress that
can accompany aging. Break the ice by talking about specifics
of your own planning. Talk to your parents about the significant
role you'd expect them to play in their grandchildrens' life if
something were to happen to you or your spouse. Then move the
specifics of the conversation over to their affairs. Taking this
approach confirms your concern is based on caring, not greed.
4 Statistical Snapshot #42, Seniors With Chronic Health
Conditions, prepared by Statistics Canada for the Division
of Aging and Seniors
5 Alzheimer Society 2001
  
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