Health Risks for Ageing Parents: Expert Tells How to Care for Them

Updated Aug 11, 2024 | 11:28 AM IST

SummaryDo you have elderly parents at your home? Are you struggling to understand them? Do your grandparents deny when you offer them help or assistance? Is this something that happens in your house regularly? If yes, then this can help you navigate helping the elderly at your home. Read on to know more.
Health Risks for Ageing Parents Expert Tells How to Care for Them

Credits: Pexels

As you grow old, your health starts to deteriorate. Everything, whether it is your mental health or your physical health, starts to slow down. However, with age, your mental health gets overshadowed by your physical health.

Signs You Should Note
Neha Sinha, a dementia specialist and CEO and Co-founder of Epoch Elder Care, with the experience of 15 years notes that with age accessing social spaces becomes a hassle. “You are not able to go out because it is not accessible anymore or is not safe. This leads to loneliness. You start to withdraw from all social gatherings, and this leads to a deterioration in your mental health,” she points out.

If you note these signs in your ageing parents or grandparents, take note of it. Try to get involved with them. It is also important to ensure that they have a separate social circle apart from the family. This way, they can have friends who they can also relate to.

With age, suggests Sinha, you are more prone to be depressed, and anxious. “Mental health conditions like schizophrenia or bipolar disorders are not something that happens when you grow older. You may have been living with these for the last 40 years, but the management differs, she suggests.

As you grow old, your symptoms start to overlap with other mental health conditions. For the proper treatment professionals use differential diagnosis, suggests Sinha. “The lines become blurred and to differentiate the symptoms from one mental health condition to another becomes difficult,” she says.

Preventive Measures
While there are ways like performing brain quizzes and optical illusions to keep your brain functioning, Sinha says that not many studies have been done on it. Thus, it cannot be guaranteed that it will help. However, it surely helps keep your brain active.

There are also food habits like eating leafy vegetables, nuts, fish, virgin coconut and beans that help with brain functions.

Sinha suggests that keeping a social circle and continuing your hobbies can help your mind stay healthy. “Men especially face this issue, after they retire, they feel like they are at the loss of authority, and they start to lose control. It is thus important to keep doing things and learning a new skill to keep your brain active. While for women, since they continue taking care of the house, their brain stays active,” she says.

Cognitive stimulation is the key, especially to managing dementia, she notes.

“Just with weight training, you push your body and after a while, it becomes your muscle memory. Same with the brain. However, one should not get into solving too many puzzles, or trivia after being diagnosed with dementia. Because that would mean you are making your already injured brain exercise which might lead to agitation,” she recommends.

How to support?
It is important to know the ways you can support your ageing parents after they have been diagnosed.

“The most important part is for the caregiver to understand what is happening and come to terms with the conditions. Because the elderly with cognitive conditions are not able to understand, they cannot be told or instructed to do anything. Thus, the responsibility is solely on the caregiver,” points out Sinha.

So, what can be done?

Awareness
Sinha suggests that the caregiver must understand that most cognitive conditions in ageing parents is progressive. “Even if you give your 200%, the condition will progress, you must not blame yourself for it. But you can delay the progression by creating a healthy environment.”

Reach out to therapists and counsellors to know the ways to create such a healthy environment.

Be Patient
With progressive neurological conditions, the capability to communicate also deteriorates. “If you have a million words in your vocabulary, your parents might have a handful. So, it is important to pay attention to their needs,” she says.

She suggests adopting the same approach that you do with kids and with your pets. This is when you focus on gestures, body language and mood over language. Due to cognitive disorders, parents experience a loss of language and the only way to communicate and to understand what they are communicating is through these means.

Be Empathetic
The earliest sign of dementia is short-term memory loss. “This means that your parents may not remember what they had or breakfast or if they had breakfast at all. But they will remember their childhood stories. You may be confused if there is at all a memory loss since they remember old stories, and you might think they are doing this on purpose. But this is not the case,” she says.

Create a healthy environment by agreeing with them and listening to their stories. The responsibility of creating a safe environment is totally with you.

There might be times when your parents may do socially unacceptable or non-compliance behaviour. But it is important to understand the triggers and ensure that the triggers do not occur anymore.

Help Them Stay Fit
It is important that they physically stay well, and do not get any infections or don’t suffer a fall. For that, you can use the help of technology like motion sensors. GPS tracker is another way you can keep a check on them. “There is a tendency of wandering off and being unable to find your way back. In these cases, a GPS tracker can help,” she says.

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Can 'Eye Strain' Lead To Brain Cancer? Experts Explain

Updated Mar 31, 2026 | 12:00 AM IST

SummaryMyla's headaches and dizziness, dismissed as mere eye strain due to playing on her iPad too much, turned out to be a huge tumor that led to her death. While prolonged screen use can cause discomfort, dry eyes, and temporary blurred vision, it does not lead to the development of cancer, the experts said.
Can 'Eye Strain' Lead To Brain Cancer? Experts Explain

Credit: Chantelle Broadley / SWNS

Ten-year-old Myla from the UK's North Yorkshire, with severe eye strain, was diagnosed with a severe brain tumor that led to her death.

The young girl had been suffering from headaches and dizziness, which were dismissed as mere eye strain due to playing on her iPad too much.

Thinking that she needed eyeglasses, her parents took her for an eye appointment, where she was diagnosed with an aggressive diffuse midline glioma — a type of brain tumor.

Myla was diagnosed with a 7-10cm tumor and was rushed to Sheffield Children's Hospital for an operation to remove 60 per cent of the mass. The youngster underwent a grueling 30 rounds of radiotherapy but tragically passed away on January 15, The Mirror.co.uk reported.

Can Eye Strains Lead To Brain Tumors?

Healthandme spoke to health experts to understand the role of eye strain and brain tumors.

The health experts noted that although prolonged exposure to digital screens can raise the risk of vision problems, they cannot cause brain tumors.

"Eye strain is most commonly linked to prolonged screen use, poor ergonomics, or uncorrected vision, and in the vast majority of cases, it is not a sign of brain cancer," Dr. Parul Maheshwari Sharma, Ophthalmologist and Principal Director & HOD - at Fortis Gurugram, told HealthandMe.

"The likelihood of experiencing eye strain being an indication of brain cancer is minimal," added Dr. Mahipal Singh Sachdev, Chairman & Medical Director, Centre For Sight Group of Eye Hospitals.

The doctors explained that brain tumors are rarely present as simple eye strain; they are usually associated with additional symptoms such as:

  • persistent headaches,
  • double vision,
  • vision loss,
  • vomiting,
  • neurological deficits.
  • convulsions,
  • vision changes.
Also read: Volleyball Accident Leaves A Woman With Rare Condition Of Multiplying Tumors

What Is Eye Strain?

Eye strain, also referred to as digital eye strain or computer vision syndrome, is caused by staring at screens for extended periods of time and decreased blinking.

It generally occurs due to benign factors such as excessive screen time, dry eye, or uncorrected vision.

While prolonged screen use can cause discomfort, dry eyes, and temporary blurred vision, it does not lead to the development of cancer.

"There is no evidence to suggest that screen-induced eye strain can cause brain tumors," Dr Sharma said.

"Although there may be visual changes due to a tumor that involves the optic nerve or hypothalamus, simple eye strain is not indicative of brain tumors and would not be considered an early warning of a brain tumor. There is an extremely low probability that eye strain will be due to a brain tumor," Dr. Sachdev told HealthandMe.

However, the experts agreed that long screen time can lead to severe eye strain.

Red Flags One Should Not Ignore For Brain Tumors

Brain tumors are generally attributed to genetics, exposure to radiation, or other unknown factors.

Numerous types of red flags could indicate the presence of a serious neurological disorder. Some examples include

  • chronic or worsening headaches, especially if severe in the morning,
  • recurrent unexplained vomiting,
  • seizure activity,
  • sudden changes in vision, such as double vision or complete loss of vision,
  • trouble speaking clearly,
  • weakness in the arms or legs,
  • drastic personality changes.
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should seek medical evaluation immediately, the experts said.

Higher-risk patients include:

  • those with a history of radiation exposure to the brain,
  • specific genetic conditions,
  • those with a family history of brain cancer.
Despite these risk factors, brain cancers are quite uncommon, and most headache and/or eye symptoms can be attributed to benign conditions.

Also read: 12-Year-Old Teen Dies From Rare Brain Tumor After Unusual Early Signs, Grieving Mother Urges Parents To Watch For Subtle Symptoms

Steps to Reduce Eye Strain

To help combat eye fatigue, individuals can adopt some simple habits, such as

  • Following the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
  • Place your computer monitor at or below eye level and keep a comfortable distance from the computer.
  • Adjust your screen brightness and contrast to comfortable levels and use adequate room lighting.
  • Remember to blink often or use artificial tears to keep your eyes moist.
  • Take screen breaks, limit the duration of time you are using your computer, or limit the continuous use of your computer.
  • Make sure you are using the correct prescription glasses and consider using an anti-glare screen, which can also help relieve discomfort and protect your eyes from long-term effects.

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Feeling Low? Ladies, It Could Just Be Dehydration

Updated Mar 30, 2026 | 08:00 PM IST

SummaryDehydration, even mild, will not just make you feel thirsty—according to researchers, it could be associated with worsening mood in women. And the impact of dehydration goes beyond mood swings in women. Find out how.
Dehydration

Dehydration can lead to poor concentration in women. (Photo credit: iStock)

Ladies, does it ever happen to you that you are not on your period, not PMSing, and still feel moody and upset? Well, as it turns out, experts say that there could be a very simple reason for this. According to researchers at the University of Connecticut, even mild dehydration could be responsible for mood changes in women. Not only this, even 1.36 per cent dehydration can affect your mood, ability to think and energy levels. The Daily Mail notes that a loss of 1.5 per cent of normal water volume levels in the body can be classified as mild dehydration, and its adverse effects can linger for some time.

Read more: The Health Problems Women Normalise, But Gynaecologists Do Not

How does dehydration affect women?

In women, the adverse effects of dehydration can be serious. Experts say that the effects are more intense in women, and they came to this conclusion after analysing the results of tests, which revealed that it does not matter if a person walks for 40 minutes on a treadmill or is in a state of rest — if an individual is even slightly thirsty, the adverse effects will be the same.

Research shows that even 1.36 per cent dehydration is enough to cause the following problems:

  1. 8 per cent rise in hostility and anger
  2. 12 per cent dip in vigour
  3. 17 per cent increase in fatigue
  4. 45 per cent dip in concentration
  5. 19 per cent worsening of mood
  6. 58 per cent dip in understanding simple tasks
  7. Headaches worsening two fold

Is thirst the same as dehydration?

Lead researcher of the study, Lawrence Armstrong, noted that a sensation of thirst does not appear until a person is one or two per cent dehydrated. By then, it starts to set in and act up, adversely impacting how the mind and body perform. Dehydration can affect everyone, which is why it is just as important for people in desk jobs to stay hydrated as it is for marathon runners.

Read more: Three Health Checks Every Woman Should Do Each Month, According To Experts

In this research, experts put participants through a series of tests evaluating their concentration, vigilance, reaction time, reasoning, memory and learning. The results were then compared with those of people who were not dehydrated. In younger women, mild dehydration resulted in fatigue, headaches and concentration difficulties. Women also found basic tasks more difficult to execute than usual. On the other hand, young men noted some difficulty in performing mental tasks — they experienced anxiety, fatigue and tension in the process. Mood changes were more prominent in women than in men.

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Oral Microbiome and Placental Growth: What Every Expecting Parent Should Know

Updated Mar 30, 2026 | 07:26 PM IST

SummaryDr. Hrishikesh Pai, Consultant Gynaecologist & IVF Specialist, Lilavati Hospital Mumbai and Fortis Hospitals Delhi & Chandigarh reveals how oral microbiome changes during pregnancy and when you should seek professional support
Oral Microbiome and Placental Growth: What Every Expecting Parent Should Know

The oral microbiome is the community of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms that naturally live in the mouth — on the teeth, gums, tongue, and cheeks. More than

700 species are known to exist, most of which are harmless and many beneficial.

However, problems arise when harmful bacteria outnumber protective ones, leading to gum inflammation or periodontal disease. During pregnancy, hormonal changes increase blood flow to the gums and alter immune responses. As a result, many women notice bleeding, swelling, or sensitivity in the gums — a condition known as pregnancy gingivitis.

This is common and reflects physiological changes rather than poor hygiene.

The Mouth's Connection To The Placenta

Pregnancy is a systemic state in which the immune system, circulation, and inflammation are closely interconnected. Chronic gum inflammation can release inflammatory mediators into the bloodstream.

In research settings, certain oral bacteria have also been detected in placental tissues from complicated pregnancies. This suggests a biological link between oral health and

placental function, although the exact pathways are still being studied.

Importantly, this relationship reflects association rather than direct causation.

Why Does Placental Health Matter?

The placenta is an active organ that regulates oxygen and nutrient transfer, hormone production, and immune protection for the developing baby.

Healthy placental development supports:

  • Efficient oxygen and nutrient delivery
  • Balanced hormone production
  • Protection against infections
  • Steady fetal growth
Placental circulation increases significantly as pregnancy progresses, making it sensitive to systemic inflammation anywhere in the body — including the gums.

What Changes In Oral Health Are Normal During Pregnancy?

Up to 60–75 percent of pregnant women experience some degree of gum inflammation. Common changes include:

  • Bleeding while brushing
  • Swollen or tender gums
  • Increased plaque buildup
  • Persistent bad breath
Mild symptoms are common and manageable. However, persistent pain, loose teeth, or severe bleeding should not be ignored.

Can Oral Health Really Affect Pregnancy Outcomes?

Research from India and globally shows associations between periodontal disease and higher risks of preterm birth, low birth weight, and preeclampsia. Meta-analyses

suggest a modest increase in risk (around 1.5–2 times).

However, pregnancy complications are multifactorial. Oral disease alone does not directly cause these outcomes. Genetics, nutrition, metabolic health, and placental

biology all play important roles.

Treating gum disease improves oral health and reduces inflammation, though studies show mixed evidence on whether it directly lowers preterm birth risk. The goal is

prevention, awareness, and overall maternal health.

How Do You Support Healthy Oral Microbiome During Pregnancy?

Daily oral care:

  • Brush twice daily with gentle pressure
  • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush
  • Clean between teeth once daily
  • Rinse your mouth after vomiting to protect enamel
Nutrition support:

  • Calcium-rich foods like curd and ragi support dental health
  • Vitamin C from amla, guava, and citrus helps gum healing
  • Fibre-rich foods support saliva flow and microbial balance
  • Hydration and lifestyle
  • Drink adequate water
  • Limit frequent sugary snacks
  • Avoid tobacco in all forms
What emotional and social factors should you consider?

Pregnancy already carries emotional and physical changes, and dental symptoms can add anxiety. Support from partners and family members helps reduce mental load.

Stress can influence immunity and inflammation. Adequate rest, gentle activity such as walking or prenatal yoga, and open communication with healthcare providers

support both oral and overall health.

Warning Signs: When Should You Contact A Doctor Or Dentist?

Seek professional advice if you notice:

  • Severe tooth pain or swelling
  • Pus, fever, or difficulty chewing
  • Bad breath that does not improve
  • Persistent gum bleeding for two weeks

Pregnancy is a time when different systems of the body work in close coordination. Oral health, immune balance, and placental function are part of the same continuum.

Gentle attention to gum health is not about perfection. It is about creating supportive conditions for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.

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