Healthy aging is an important public health issue, both nationally and internationally. The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes healthy aging as a process whereby all people of all ages are able to live a healthy, safe and socially inclusive lifestyle. Discuss how social determinants of health for the older adult are impacted for those living in poverty. Post your discussion to the Moodle Discussion Forum. Word limit 500 words. Support your answers with the literature and provide citations and references in APA format
Healthy aging is a complex issue influenced by various social determinants of health. Social determinants of health are the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age, and they strongly impact individuals’ health and well-being (World Health Organization, 2020). Among the older adult population, those living in poverty face numerous challenges that affect their ability to age in a healthy manner. In this discussion, we will explore how social determinants of health for older adults are impacted by poverty.
One key social determinant of health that is impacted by poverty is access to healthcare. Older adults living in poverty often struggle to afford necessary medical care and medications due to limited financial resources (DeNavas-Walt & Proctor, 2014). Consequently, they may delay seeking medical attention, leading to the progression of health issues and a decrease in overall health. Research has shown that individuals living in poverty have higher rates of chronic disease, such as diabetes and heart disease, which can significantly impact their quality of life (Artiga & Hinton, 2019).
Another social determinant of health influenced by poverty is housing stability. Older adults living in poverty may face issues such as homelessness or inadequate housing conditions (Shinn et al., 2018). These living conditions increase the risk of poor physical and mental health outcomes. For instance, older adults without stable housing may have limited access to nutritious food, clean water, and sanitation facilities, leading to malnutrition and a weakened immune system (Fazel, Geddes, & Kushel, 2014). Inadequate housing also increases the risk of falls and injuries, which can have serious consequences for older adults (Kirk-Sanchez & McGough, 2014).
Furthermore, poverty affects social support networks, which is another social determinant of health for older adults. Older adults living in poverty often have limited social connections and may be more isolated from friends, family, and community resources (Liu & Guo, 2016). Social isolation has been associated with negative health outcomes, including increased morbidity and mortality rates (Holt-Lunstad, Smith, & Layton, 2010). Without a strong social support network, older adults may face greater challenges in managing chronic illnesses, maintaining mental well-being, and accessing necessary resources for healthy aging.
Poverty also impacts education and employment opportunities, contributing to the social determinants of health for older adults. Limited educational attainment and employment prospects are often associated with lower income and increased likelihood of living in poverty in later life (National Center for