Question

According to Stanley (2005), "...polypharmacy, drug-nutrient interaction, and inadequate dietary intake can contribute to vitamin and mineral deficiencies in the older adult." The implications of this knowledge can mean what related to the aging adult? What does this information mean to the health care team in terms of resolving potential problems?

Answer 1

The three conditions of polypharmacy, drug-nutrient interaction and inadequate dietary intake can result in potential problems to the ageing population. Polypharmacy is the intake of multiple drugs together for one or more diseases. The reaction of different drugs can adversely affect the body. The risk increases with the number of drugs. Drug- nutrient interaction is the reactions of the drug against vitamines and minerals in the body. Do not use drugs without a physician's description. It will be dangerous to use drugs ourselves without knowing its reactions inside our body.

The third point is a common one. Everyone knows that vitamins and minerals are essential for the body to perform different functions. The sufficient amount of nutrients can be provided by proper diet planning. It is important for ageing adults to intake more foods which contain vitamin D and calcium. Calcium and vitamin D are essential to maintain bone strength. Healthcare teams in the communities can take initiates in this matter and can aware the people about the importance of a healthy diet. They can arrange campaigns and motivate people to visit healthcare facilities other than self-treatments.