Anemia in Older Adults

 Anemia is a disorder when the body lacks sufficient red blood cells as a result of iron deficiency. This impacts the delivery of adequate oxygen to the body's tissues. Anemia can take various forms, such as temporary or chronic, and can range from mild to severe. Although it may not seem like a significant health problem, anemic older adults are more prone to experience physical decline and require hospitalization. It is crucial for caregivers and older adults to be aware of this condition.

Different Types of Anemia and Their Causes  

When people discuss anemia, they typically concentrate on Iron deficiency anemia, however, anemia can be caused by a variety of factors. Here are the different types of anemia:  

  • Iron deficiency anemia: This is the most common form of anemia caused by a lack of iron in your body. Without iron, your body cannot make enough hemoglobin (a protein in your blood cells that carry oxygen to the body’s organs and tissues) for red blood cells. The majority of pregnant women experience this kind of anemia. It's also caused by severe monthly bleeding, cancer of the bowel, and frequent use of over-the-counter painkillers. Ibuprofen and aspirin, for instance, can result in stomach irritation. 

  • Vitamin deficiency anemia: Apart from iron, your body requires vitamin B-12 to produce enough healthy red blood cells. Vitamin B-12 helps form DNA and for your cells to divide. You can find vitamin B-12 in meat, fish, milk, cheese, and eggs. A diet lacking in these can cause decreased red blood cell production. 

  • Anemia of inflammation: Red blood cell production can be hindered by conditions including HIV/AIDS, cancer, kidney illness, rheumatoid arthritis, and other inflammatory diseases.

  • Aplastic anemia: This is a rare kind of anemia that can be brought on by hazardous chemical exposure (such as benzene and pesticides), certain medications (chloramphenicol, phenylbutazone, and sulfonamides), autoimmune illnesses (hepatitis and lupus), and infections.

  • Anemia related to bone marrow disease: Anemia can occur in a number of illnesses that interfere with bone marrow’s ability to produce blood, such as leukemia. 

  • Hemolytic anemias: This type of anemia develops when red blood cells are lost more quickly than bone marrow can produce new ones.  Hemolytic anemia can be inherited or acquired later in life.

Symptoms of Anemia

Many people do not become aware of anemia until it becomes severe. Here are a few of the common symptoms of anemia:

  • Fatigue 

  • Weakness

  • Rapid heartbeat

  • Shortness of breath

  • Headaches

  • Chest pain

  • Becoming paler

  • Lower blood pressure 

Treatment

Iron supplements, medicines, and even blood transfusions are used to treat anemia.  If you have low iron levels, your doctor will probably suggest that you take iron supplements and consume meals high in iron.  Beans, red meats, shellfish, tofu, lentils, mushrooms, and green leafy vegetables are just a few of the things on the list. Iron supplements are oral tablets that provide a more reliable source of iron. In rare cases, doctors will recommend epoetin injection (a medication) that helps your body produce new red blood cells. 

Prevention 

In order to avoid developing anemia, it's crucial to follow up regularly with your doctor. Here are some preventative strategies you can do every day:

  • Eat more meals high in iron

  • Drink enough water

  • Exercise regularly; visit our article to learn about age-inclusive exercise

  • Avoid infections by washing your hands regularly 

  • Caffeinated drinks can interfere with the absorption of iron, so avoid consuming them with meals.


Anemia is frequent among older adults. If you are showing symptoms, contact your doctor for a diagnosis.   Your doctor will give you the right medication to treat the underlying issues. We hope that this information on anemia is useful to you.

— Sunny Escalante

caregivingJennifer Goodanemia, legal and medicalComment