Gluten is an autoimmune protein present in wheat, rye, and barley that causes damage to the small intestine when consumed. This illness is known as celiac disease. Although celiac disease is frequently detected in younger adults and children, it can manifest at any age, and seniors are increasingly experiencing its occurrence. With the support of home care providers and loved ones, seniors can learn more about celiac disease and why appropriate treatment is key.
Seniors’ Celiac Disease Symptoms
Because the symptoms of celiac disease are sometimes mild or confused with other age-related illnesses, it can be challenging to detect the disease in seniors. This is one of the many reasons why having home care by their side is a good idea, as they can help monitor their health and document any changes.
When talking with seniors about celiac disease, they should be aware of some typical signs and symptoms, including:
Gastrointestinal Problems: Although diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and gas are typical indicators of celiac disease, they are frequently mistaken for other digestive problems in seniors.
Nutritional Deficiencies: When there is damage to the small intestines, it can also interfere with the body’s ability to absorb certain nutrients, such as iron, calcium, vitamin D, and other vital vitamins and minerals. Additionally, anemia, osteoporosis, and even neurological problems like tingling or numbness in the hands and feet might also become an issue when seniors are lacking these nutrients.
Bone and Joint Pain: A lack of calcium and vitamin D weakens bones over time, which can lead to osteoporosis, and osteopenia, which is a precursor to osteoporosis. Both of these issues are also common in seniors with celiac disease.
Exhaustion: Continued malnourishment and an overactive immune system can lead to chronic or persistent exhaustion. In addition, it may also be a sign of celiac disease.
Skin Rash: Another possible sign of celiac disease is dermatitis herpetiformis, a skin rash that is itchy and blistering. Although it is more frequent in younger people, this rash can also affect seniors, so it’s important for them to be aware of this possibility.
Consequences of Untreated Celiac Disease
Due to their predisposition to conditions including nutrient deficits, weakened immune systems, and bone loss, seniors are more susceptible to problems from untreated celiac disease.
The following are some of the risks they may encounter:
Osteoporosis: This condition can significantly lower a senior’s quality of life by increasing their risk of fractures and decreasing mobility. Because of improper absorption of calcium and vitamin D, celiac disease makes this problem worse.
Increased Cancer Risk: Intestinal lymphoma and other gastrointestinal malignancies, which can manifest suddenly in seniors, are more common in those with untreated celiac disease.
Neurological Symptoms: Nutrient malabsorption disorders, such as vitamin B12 deficiency, can cause neuropathy, or nerve damage, and even cognitive impairment, which can occasionally resemble dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
Seniors may find it difficult to adjust to a gluten-free lifestyle at first, but with the support of loved ones and home care, they can begin to understand that there are substantial health advantages to appropriate care. For instance, seniors who eat a gluten-free diet can enhance their nutritional absorption, heal their digestive systems, and lower their chances of developing some of the risks noted above.
Sources: https://celiac.org/2018/03/29/importance-detecting-celiac-disease-later-life-2/
If you or an aging loved one are considering Home Care Services in Palmetto GA, please get in touch with the caring staff at Senior Solutions Home Care. (404) 266-8773
Senior Solutions Home Care is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Atlanta, Palmetto, Alpharetta, Chattahoochee Hills, Milton, College Park, Sandy Springs, Roswell, Hapeville, Johns Creek, and all of Fulton County.
Over the years, we have expanded, providing service in all 95 counties throughout Tennessee, and we now have a growing presence in Georgia.
Senior Solutions is recognized as a top 5% independent agency and a three-time Inc. 5000 honoree in 2018, 2019, and 2020. These types of awards matter to us because they show growth in our goal of eventually touching a million lives. We’re excited to continue that growth and to touch even more families with our commitment to quality care!
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