ALTERACIONES SENSORIALES EN EL ADULTO MAYOR Y SU RELACIÓN CON LA CALIDAD DE VIDA

Abstract

Aging is linked to sensory changes in older adults, which affects their quality of life and can lead to disabilities. Currently, around 50 million people suffer from sensory impairments, a figure that is expected to increase to 82 million by 2030. These impairments include problems in the five senses (vision, hearing, taste, smell and touch), which are essential for perception and interaction with the environment. To improve the quality of life of older adults and their caregivers, it is crucial to implem e n t comprehensive health policies that address these sensory problems. This also involve s empowering people to reduce risk factors such as diabetes and cardiovascu l a r disease. The World Health Organization (WHO) offers programs to assess and reduce sensory and cognitive impairment in the elderly. Alcohol and tobacco use can aggravate sensory and memory problems, negatively affecting quality of life. Family caregivers play a critical role in the well-being of older adults with sensory impairment. It is vital to understand how these impairments impact their daily lives and to assess their sensory, mental and motor abilities to prevent falls and improve their quality of life.A recent study revealed that sensory impairments, especially in vision and hearing, have a major impact on the quality of life of older adults. Decreas e d vision can predict cognitive changes, and sensory impairments are associated with an increased risk of dementia. These impairments also affect independence, well-being and social interactions. Dysfunction of the sense of smell is related to cognitive and sensory impairment, affecting memory and verbal fluency, and may be an early indicator of dementia, also influencing nutrition and daily activities. Factors such as low schooli ng , declining physical performance and lack of social support increase cognitive and sensory vulnerability, making the support of health professionals, family and friends crucial to manage these dysfunctions.