Pinched by the economy, older adults may be putting themselves at risk

Evidence is mounting that older adults are cutting everyday expenses to keep up with the economic downturn.

Local senior-care experts warn families to be on alert to make sure seniors aren't cutting too deeply. Warning signs include skipping medications, pulling the plug on air conditioning and canceling social outings.

In a report released in May by AARP titled "The Economic Slowdown's Impact on MiddleAged and Older Americans," 59 percent of seniors 65 and older surveyed said they'd found it more difficult to pay for essential items such as food, gas and medicine. Nearly half- 47 percent- said they found it more difficult to pay for utilities such as heating, cooling or phone service.

Fortysix percent have reduced the number of times they eat out and 45 percent cut back spending on entertainment.

"Cuts of essential items such as food and medication should be of immediate concern to seniors' families," said Laurie Reid, owner of the Home Instead Senior Care office serving Ventura County.

"Other reductions in spending can lead to less obvious issues. One of the biggest problems that we see is senior isolation, which has been magnified during this troubled time in our economy with the high price of gas," she said.

"When seniors' families live a distance from their loved ones, or when boomer children are busy trying to make ends meet themselves, an older adult can get in trouble very quickly," Reid said. "That's why it's so important that someone look out for the well-being of seniors to ensure they're safe in their homes and eating properly, taking their medications and able to maintain their appointments and social life."

Seniors at all income levels may be facing choices they haven't had to make in the past, Reid said.

"They should know where to go for help before they put themselves or their health at risk. Area Agencies on Aging, for instance, offer both food and gas assistance, so seniors should contact their local offices if they can't make ends meet.

Families also can play an important role monitoring seniors who've decided to scale back because of the economy, said Reid.

"Even seemingly innocent decisions, like cutting back a little on groceries or air conditioning, can have a damaging impact," she said.