Black seniors, especially those living in retirement communities, are likely to face particular challenges. Generational poverty, systemic racism, and unequal access to healthcare all contribute to these concerns. However, you can help your loved one address these and advocate for them to receive equitable care, attention, and access to medical assistance. In this article, we'll discuss four common challenges faced by Black seniors and how to best advocate for your family member or loved one.
1. Isolation and Cultural Connection
Older Black residents of retirement communities may feel isolated because of the lack of diversity and cultural connections in such environments. This puts them at greater risk of feeling isolated, struggling with anxiety, or facing depression.
It's important to ask the retirement community staff what resources are in place for Black patients and if any additional services or adjustments need to be made in order to provide adequate care and support. Culturally competent care is essential. It's important to ensure that staff is culturally aware and sensitive so that they can provide the best care possible for a diverse population.
2. Higher Risk of Health Conditions
Research has found that black seniors are more likely to suffer from chronic health issues, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and stroke. Other health conditions caused by these primary ailments are also common, such as neuropathy from diabetes. Limited access to resources may leave Black seniors without proper treatment options, which could worsen the condition in extreme cases.
You can support your loved one in two crucial ways. Educate them about their own health, and advocate for their care. Education helps Black seniors be proactive about their own care, both with preventative lifestyle changes and when interacting with healthcare providers. Advocating for your loved one with both retirement community staff and their healthcare providers is another important part of managing their care. Ensure that any provider they see is aware of all treatments or plans already set in place. Make sure these plans are laid out with the retirement community staff as well.
3. Limited Access to Healthcare
Black Americans have traditionally had unequal access to healthcare, and this challenge extends to seniors living in retirement communities. When they do get access to healthcare, it may be hard to communicate openly with an establishment that has not traditionally supported people of color. Your loved one might feel out of place visiting new services and medical facilities where they may not be familiar with the process, technology, or terminology. You can help your senior get access to high-quality healthcare by helping them research providers, as well as supporting their conversations with new doctors about the challenges they face. Look for providers with experience treating Black populations.
4. Financial Insecurity
Access to quality care at reasonable costs is a major concern for Black seniors. They may be living on a fixed income or struggling to acquire government assistance. There can also be difficulty navigating unknown doctor's offices, finding transportation, or meeting all out-of-pocket expenses if they have limited financial resources available or don't qualify for governmental aid programs. Seniors living in retirement communities need extra support in this area.
Helping your loved one navigate the complex network of government programs can get them much-needed financial assistance. They will need you to advocate for them and encourage them when the system seems to be blocking their path. Simply making a phone call and dealing with the agency on behalf of your senior can be a big help. There are also financial professionals who specialize in assisting seniors with these government agencies.
Senior Helpers Offers Personalized Help for Black Seniors
Although Black seniors living in retirement communities are more likely to face challenges, having you in their corner will make a world of difference. You can advocate for your loved one with doctors, retirement community staff, and government agencies, helping ensure that they get the best possible care. Senior Helpers Northwest Ohio proudly provides personalized caregiving services for Black seniors in and around the Northwest Ohio, Toledo, Waterville, Bowling Green, and Sylvania areas. If you or your loved one needs help researching healthcare solutions or advocating for care, contact us today!