Pneumonia, cancer, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases have become leading causes of death among the elderly population, especially in Kenya. Between 2019 and 2023, these diseases accounted for a significant number of deaths, with pneumonia being the deadliest, claiming 7,878 lives in 2021 alone. This worrying trend raises alarms about the state of healthcare and the overall well-being of older adults, whose mortality rates have been climbing steadily due to various factors such as lifestyle changes, delayed medical intervention, and limited healthcare access.
As the population ages, the risk of developing chronic diseases like cancer and hypertension increases. These diseases often progress slowly, and by the time they are detected, they are frequently at an advanced stage, making treatment more difficult and less effective. For example, cancer, which was the leading cause of death in 2019, claimed 3,203 lives that year. Hypertension, which leads to heart attacks and strokes, claimed 3,615 lives in 2020. Furthermore, between 2022 and 2023, cardiopulmonary issues and cardiovascular diseases caused a total of 9,141 deaths among the elderly.
The vulnerability of older adults to these conditions is partly due to weakened immune systems that occur with age. Pneumonia, in particular, remains a major concern due to its high mortality rate among elderly individuals. People over 60 are at higher risk of respiratory infections, including pneumonia, because their immune systems are less capable of fighting off infections. Many older people also do not receive vaccines that could help prevent pneumonia, further increasing their susceptibility.
Delayed medical intervention is another critical factor. Many older adults do not seek medical care until symptoms are severe, which significantly reduces the chances of successful treatment. The lack of routine health check-ups is a result of limited access to healthcare, especially for those living in rural areas. Many elderly individuals cannot afford medical expenses, and public healthcare facilities often suffer from underfunding and lack of resources. This leads to undiagnosed conditions, like cancer and heart disease, which worsen over time.
In addition to medical challenges, lifestyle changes have contributed to the rise in non-communicable diseases among the elderly. Traditional diets, which were once rich in natural foods, have been replaced with processed and high-fat foods. This shift has led to an increase in obesity, diabetes, and hypertension, all of which contribute to the development of cardiovascular diseases and other chronic conditions.
The socio-economic factors affecting older people also play a significant role in the rising mortality rates. Many elderly individuals depend on their families for financial support, and as the cost of living continues to rise, healthcare often becomes a lower priority. This financial strain prevents many older people from seeking necessary medical care or regular check-ups. Social isolation is another issue, particularly among elderly individuals who live alone or have lost their spouses. Lack of social support can result in neglect of personal health, poor nutrition, and untreated medical conditions, all of which contribute to an increased risk of death.
Mental health issues, such as depression and stress, are also significant contributors to the overall health decline in older adults. These factors weaken the body’s ability to fight off disease and increase the vulnerability to chronic illnesses. In many cases, mental health problems are not adequately addressed, further complicating the elderly person’s health situation.
To address this growing crisis, a comprehensive approach is needed. Preventive healthcare, including regular screenings for cancer, hypertension, and cholesterol, is essential for early detection and timely intervention. Public health campaigns should emphasize the importance of maintaining proper nutrition, engaging in physical activity, and managing stress to reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases later in life.
In addition, expanding access to healthcare for the elderly is crucial. This could include subsidies for medical treatment, as well as improvements to the Social Health Insurance Fund to make healthcare more affordable. The government must also invest in healthcare infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, to ensure that older adults have access to quality medical care. Furthermore, the training and recruitment of more geriatric specialists are essential to cater to the specific health needs of older adults.
In conclusion, while the aging population faces numerous health challenges, including pneumonia, cancer, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases, these issues are not insurmountable. By prioritizing preventive healthcare, improving access to medical services, and addressing the socio-economic factors that affect older adults, we can reduce mortality rates and enhance the overall quality of life for Kenya’s elderly population.
