Health

The process of aging is invariably accompanied by physical and mental problems. What makes it worse is the hustle and bustle of a big city like Hong Kong that invites those problems to come earlier. Concerned as many may be, they choose not to tell others about their health problems - not even their families or closest friends - for either hating the idea of making their loved ones worried and upset or simply hanging back at the thought of a string of checks followed by medications and being placed on the operation table. In many cases that worsens the conditions and accounts for why, with their little secret, some grandparents become less sociable than before once they become aware of their problems.

Old age disease is not something to be ashamed of. It is part of life. Elders and the aged should understand that a positive attitude and squarely facing the problem is critical for their treatment and recovery. Besides, there are a lot of health talks (Chinese only)  organized by the authorities and NGOs which help elders equipped to deal with various health problems. 

Below is a list of diseases that elders and the aged may be interested in knowing about. Following the list is an introduction of the symptoms and causes of specific diseases and, in some cases, information as to where to get help. Hopefully this will help senior citizens and those who have an aged family member to look after have a better understanding of the diseases and take more effective precautions.

If you have health concerns, you are welcome to visit Community CareAge Foundation for online help. You may also have access to the list of doctors of general departments and special departments of The Medical Council of Hong Kong.

Elderly persons who have financial difficulties may seek help from volunteer agencies which offer free medical consultation service. Among them, the" Free Elderly Medicare " Scheme has recruited more than 60 specialists and professional healthcare staff to provide free consultation service and free medicine for needy elderly. 

 

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進食困難長者有選擇
Written by：Isabel Lee

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