Anemia

Anemia is a condition in which there aren’t enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to the tissues of the body.  It is not a disease but is a symptom of an underlying health problem.  Anemia can be temporary or long-term and can range from being mild to severe.

 

Causes/Risk Factors	Symptoms	Consequences	Treatment
blood loss from accident, surgery, bleeding ulcer & hemorrhoids increased destruction of red blood cells toxins or diseases inherited disorders acquired condition chronic illness vitamin deficiency	tiredness or easily fatigued weak or unable to exercise prone to breathlessness even with little exertion lightheadedness pale in appearance	congestive heart failure decreased cognitive function functional impairment falling	treatment varies depending on cause & include: iron vitamin supplements blood transfusions bone marrow transplant
Note:  Seniors may not display the common symptoms of anemia.  Instead anemia may present itself in the form of confusion, fainting spells, falls, chest pain or congestive heart failure.

How Preferred Care at Home Caregivers Can Help Clients, Who Are Anemic

Encourage them to:

• take treatments and medications as prescribed;
• eat a balanced diet consisting of several small meals, even when tired, as several small meals will provide more energy;
• eat foods that contain iron (eggs, red meat, liver and spinach);
• get more rest i.e. sleep more hours overnight and take naps during the day;
• don’t try to do many things in the same one day – save some for the next day and/or get help;
• lie down flat when feeling dizzy and when time to get up, rise very slowly; and,
• consult with doctor, nurse or dietician about taking vitamin supplements.