How to treat for anemia in elderly people?

Anemia in elderly people is very common. It is likely that most of the elderly people around you have this problem of anemia in the elderly.

According to the World Health Organization criteria for anemia (hemoglobin below 12 g/dL [120 g/L] for women and 13 g/dL [130 g/L] for men), the prevalence of anemia in the elderly ranges from 8% to 44%, with the highest prevalence in men over 85 years of age.

The prevalence of anemia in elderly people increases with age, leading to speculation that reduced hemoglobin levels may be a normal consequence of aging, and to overlook the importance of treating anemia in the elderly.

Although the high prevalence of anemia in elderly people makes it a condition that clinicians are likely to detect frequently, several characteristics of anemia make it easy to overlook and delay treatment of anemia. The onset of signs and symptoms is usually insidious, and many elderly patients adjust their activities as their bodies physiologically adjust to the condition.

Anemia in elderly people have a lower than normal red blood cell count or they have a lower than normal amount of hemoglobin in their red blood cells. When the red blood cell count is low, the body's cells do not receive enough oxygen. The article describes the types of anemia in older adults, symptoms, common blood tests and the types of treatments available for anemia.

What are the types of anemia in elderly people?

Helps professionals understand the different types of anemia in elderly people. Types of anemia in elderly people include:

1. Iron deficiency
2. B12 deficiency (mainly in older residents)
3. Folic acid deficiency

What are the causes of anemia in elderly people?

Although anemia in elderly people is not inevitable, the incidence of anemia in the elderly does increase over time. A number of age-related physical changes increase the risk of developing anemia in elderly people. The elderly are prone to reduced bone marrow hematopoietic tissue and low iron utilization. Decreased erythropoietin levels with age can also affect the risk of anemia in elderly people. Erythropoietin levels decline due to renal insufficiency, hypoxia, or decreased testosterone.

There are several common causes of anemia in elderly people: chronic diseases, medications (metformin and proton pump inhibitors), iron deficiency, B12 deficiency, folic acid deficiency, gastrointestinal bleeding, bariatric surgery, and myelodysplastic syndrome. These causes may indicate other underlying health problems. For example, anemia associated with iron deficiency indicates a possible absorption problem in the intestines or blood in the stool. In addition, some chronic diseases can interfere with the body's ability to produce red blood cells. Diseases such as cancer, Crohn's disease and other inflammatory diseases, HIV/AIDS, rheumatoid arthritis and kidney disease can cause anemia. For this reason, anemia is often an indicator of disease, and for the 80% of older adults who suffer from anemia in the elderly, an underlying cause has been identified.

Treat for anemia in elderly people

Treatment varies depending on the type and severity of anemia in elderly people. Seniors who have difficulty caring for themselves may go from relatively simple supplementation and diet awareness to more complex approaches. Here are some common treatments for anemia.

Iron supplementation

• Ferrous sulfate
• Ferrous gluconate
• Ferrous fumarate
• Iron polysaccharide

Iron supplementation precautions: If patients cannot tolerate ferrous sulfate due to adverse gastrointestinal reactions, ferrous gluconate is usually better tolerated but will not be absorbed.

B12 Supplements

• Folic acid supplements
• Dietary Considerations
• Seafood
• Red meats
• Legumes and whole grains
• Vegetables
• Blood transfusions

Treat for anemia in elderly people underlying cause or condition

Help the elderly improve the effectiveness of supplements by educating them that Antacids or calcium should not be ingested within four hours of iron supplementation.
If tolerated, it is best to take iron supplements on an empty stomach. Taking vitamin C with iron may increase absorption.

The article is for reference only and cannot be used as a basis for consultation. If you have any questions or symptoms, please consult a qualified physician. 

See also:

1. Anemia treatment

2. What Is Blood Test For Iron Called?

3. 2022 Best Home Hemoglobin Meter Buyers Guide

4. Can I take anemia tests at home?

5. How to choose the at-home kidney test？

6. What main factors influence the hemoglobin test for results?

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