Prepared by: Nurse Amal Al -Bastaki
Ramadan is a great opportunity to draw closer to God and promote spirituality, but it may represent a health challenge for the elderly, especially for those who suffer from chronic diseases or public health weakness. As age, the body’s need for special care increases, making fasting a challenge requires a balance between the performance of the duty and the preservation of health.
The elderly face multiple health challenges during the month of Ramadan, most notably chronic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease, which require accurate follow -up of their diet and medicine times. Fasting may also lead to dehydration and liquid deficiency, especially since the feeling of thirst decreases with age, which makes the elderly more vulnerable to kidney problems or low blood pressure.
Besides, the elderly may feel fatigue and fatigue as a result of changes in dates and sleep, as fasting for long hours may lead to low energy levels, especially if the diet is not balanced. The problems of the digestive system, such as constipation or acidity, become more common due to diet changes. Other challenges are the disorder of the dates of drugs, which may affect their effectiveness and increase the risk of health complications.
How can the elderly a balance between fasting and health?
To ensure safe fasting, it is necessary for the elderly to consult a doctor before Ramadan to assess their health, and to ensure whether the fasting is appropriate for them or not. In some cases, the doctor may advise them to adjust the doses of medicines or change their dates to suit fasting, while breakfast may be preferred in other cases in order to preserve their health.
The diet plays an essential role in maintaining the health of the elderly during Ramadan. It is important that breakfast be balanced, start with dates and water to replace fluid deficiency, then followed by a meal rich in proteins and vegetables to maintain energy levels. As for the suhoor meal, it is better to contain foods rich in fiber such as oats or whole grains, and proteins such as eggs or yogurt, as these foods help reduce the feeling of hunger during the day. It is also important to avoid salty and fried foods, as they may cause thirst and dehydration.
Moisturizing is an essential factor to maintain the health of the elderly during fasting. They should drink sufficient amounts of water between breakfast and suhoor, while avoiding soft or caffeine drinks, as they may increase fluid loss. In addition, fruits and vegetables rich in water such as cucumber and watermelon can be eaten to help moisturize the body.
Physical activity should be studied during Ramadan. It is preferable for the elderly to avoid the hard physical exertion during fasting, and to make light walking after breakfast to maintain their activity without stress. Also, regular sleep is very important, as getting enough rest helps reduce the feeling of fatigue during the day.
When should the elderly break breakfast?
Despite the desire of many elderly to fast, there are cases where breakfast is necessary to maintain health. The elderly are recommended to break the fast immediately if they feel very weak or continuous dizziness, or if they are exposed to a sharp decrease or a sudden rise in the level of sugar or blood pressure. Also, any serious symptoms such as rapid heartbeat or severe headaches may be an indication of the body’s need for fluids and food. In these cases, you should not be repeated in breakfast and consult a doctor.
In conclusion, fasting in Ramadan is a great ritual, but maintaining health is no less important, especially for the elderly. By following a balanced diet, drinking adequate amounts of water, and getting enough comfort, they can fast in a safe way without endangering their health. Also, the role of the family and society is important in supporting the elderly during Ramadan, by helping them in choosing appropriate foods, reminding them of the dates of medicines, and encouraging them to listen to the signs of their bodies. By achieving this balance, the elderly can enjoy the month of Ramadan without health problems, while maintaining their energy and their ability to perform acts of worship with comfort and safety.
* Member of the Board of Directors of the Friends of Health Association
