The review highlighted that older adults faced a range of physical, social and psychological challenges due to living with chronic conditions and required care and support in three main areas: 1) social activities and relationships; 2) psychological health; and 3) activities related to mobility, self-care and domestic life.

This section discusses some of the challenges we encounter during this process. As already observed, many older adults remain highly self-sufficient. Others require more care. Because the elderly typically no longer hold jobs, finances can be a challenge. And due to cultural misconceptions, older people can be targets of ridicule and stereotypes.

People who live alone are typically poorer. Loneliness and social isolation. Lack of adequate nutrition because older people who live alone frequently do not eat proper balanced meals because they don’t see the point of “cooking for one”. Health problems such as hearing impairment are more likely to go undetected for longer.