Flood Disaster!! Increased Stress and Health Risks: Elderly at Risk of Depression - Tips for Coping

Flooding, or "water disasters," is one of Thailand's top natural calamities, causing significant damage to property, bodies, and minds, particularly affecting the elderly both directly and indirectly.

 

Dr. Tanin Vejjapinan, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Medical Services

 

Dr. Tanin Vejjapinan, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Medical Services, discussed the severe impacts of the recent flood on health and overall well-being of the elderly. The health impacts include:

1. Infections and flood-related diseases such as skin infections from contaminated water, gastrointestinal diseases, respiratory infections, and foot infections caused by water exposure.
2. Mobility issues and injuries from being swept by water or slipping on wet surfaces.
3. Lack of medication and continuous healthcare, as medicines may be lost in the water, and transportation routes to hospitals may be cut off.
4. Malnutrition and dehydration due to limited access to food.

In addition to physical health impacts, the emotional and psychological effects of the losses can be profound, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which can affect both elderly flood victims and those following the news. Symptoms may include insomnia, anxiety, hypervigilance, and even depression, which in severe cases can lead to self-harm in the elderly.

Dr. Busakorn Loharoonchun, Director of the Somdet Phra Sangharaja Yan Sangwon Institute of Geriatric Medicine, added that elderly individuals often take longer to recover from floods compared to younger people due to their weakened physical condition. Special mental care is also needed to help them return to normal life. The Institute has provided the following coping strategies:

1. Move to a safe area as quickly as possible.
2. Contact rescue agencies if able.
3. If the house hasn’t been flooded, move valuables upstairs and keep a week’s supply of essential medicines on hand.
4. Drink clean water and eat properly cooked food.
5. Talk to friends, relatives, or family, and avoid bottling up feelings.
6. Find ways to relax, such as deep breathing or exercise.

For elderly individuals following the news about floods, the following tips are recommended:

1. Limit exposure to distressing news and avoid watching upsetting events repeatedly.
2. Try to maintain a normal daily routine.
3. Remind yourself that it is normal to feel bad—life has good and bad days.
4. If feelings of depression or anxiety persist, consult a nearby specialist.

 

Source: ThaiHealth