Aging and Anemia: Why Seniors Are at Risk

Anemia is a medical condition characterized by a deficiency in the number or quality of red blood cells (RBCs) or the amount of hemoglobin they contain. Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. When a person is anemic, their body doesn't receive the oxygen it needs to function optimally, leading to a variety of symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and dizziness.

In the context of aging, anemia takes on particular significance. It is not a normal consequence of aging, yet it is commonly seen in older adults. The elderly population is more vulnerable due to a combination of physiological changes, chronic illnesses, and sometimes inadequate nutrition. Anemia in seniors can often go unnoticed or be misattributed to “just getting older,” which can delay diagnosis and proper treatment. The consequences of untreated anemia in older individuals are more serious than in younger people, potentially contributing to a decline in physical and cognitive function, increased risk of falls, and even higher rates of hospitalization and mortality.

There are several types of anemia, but among seniors, three are especially prevalent: iron deficiency anemia, vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anemia, and anemia of chronic disease. Iron deficiency anemia occurs when the body lacks enough iron to produce hemoglobin. This might result from poor dietary intake, blood loss from gastrointestinal conditions, or impaired absorption. Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anemia is often due to malabsorption or dietary insufficiency and can have significant neurological consequences if left untreated. Anemia of chronic disease, also called anemia of inflammation, is commonly associated with chronic illnesses like kidney disease, cancer, or rheumatoid arthritis. In this form, the body’s ability to produce and use red blood cells is hindered by ongoing inflammation or other disease processes.