Impact of disease on SOCIAL HEALTH

Being healthy is being social. Interaction in the community and participation in

the activities is possible only when a person is healthy. World Health

Organization (WHO) defines health as not merely the absence of disease or

infirmity, but a state of complete psychical, mental and social wellbeing. Even if

not free from disease but a person being physically and mentally sound he/she

can be functionally independent. And this functional status is vital to execute

the social responsibilities.

In elderly, commonly we see chronic diseases that require a long period of

treatment and management at multiple care levels. These have their own set

of problems. Apart from disease specific symptoms they can have additional

symptoms like pain, tiredness, anxiety, depression owing to chronicity of

disease. Daily routine activities are disturbed. Physical limitations increase if

fall, injury or fracture happens. Ability to work is hampered. Stroke and

arthritis most consistently contribute to disability. Keeping up with the health

stress can built up. Long periods of stress can lead to frustration, anger,

hopelessness, and depression. A negative self-image can withdraw from one

friends and social activities. Old people can get affected by such negative

experiences and feel lonely not able to share their grief. Talk less to family and

friends. Less often visit social places and events eventually get isolated from

society. If the patient becomes home-bound, dependant for self-care and bed-

bound this results in significant alteration in the quality of life, social isolation,

and family conflicts.

Chronic health conditions can equally affect the caregivers and family

members of the patient. Emotional and interpersonal relationships can get

disrupted. Leisure activities are affected, financial resources can get exhausted.

Common chronic diseases are

• Diabetes

• Heart diseases

• Stroke

• Neurodegenerative disorders

• Inflammatory bowel disease

• Urogenital conditions

• Arthritis

• Hearing impairments

• Visual impairments

• Psychiatric disorders

• Dermatologic conditions

• Cancers

Controlling the risk factors is possible to prevent occurrence and progression of

most chronic diseases. Many chronic diseases are linked to lifestyle choices.

behavioral risk modifying is part of primary prevention. Patient should also be

informed, educated and empowered for the self-management of his/her

disease.

How You Can Prevent Chronic Diseases

1. Eat nutritious and healthy.

2. Do regular physical activity

3. Stop smoking and tobacco. Avoid drinking too much alcohol

4. Get screened for preventable disease.

5. Get enough sleep.

6. Counselling when feel the necessity

Health promotion and disease prevention can help patients to make healthier

choices and reduce their risk of disease and disability. Prevention is to help

people manage their problems effectively so that they stay healthy and

independent. Social interaction promotes a sense of belonging and security.

Being social is being healthy.