Psychological problems of the aged and its management

Abstract

Aging is an inevitable biological phenomenon resulting from intrinsic and extrinsic damage to the various organs and systems. One does not know when old age begins. The "biological age" of a person is not identical to the "chronological age". Victor Hugo once said 40 is the old age of youth where as 50 is the youth of old age. So in countries like India we are considering the age of 60 as the start of old age. The decline in cognitive functions is very common consequence of aging. It is significantly associated with poor self-perception, depression, fear, worry, anxiety, decreased memory, angry etc., which are sometimes life-threatening conditions. In Astanga Ayurveda, Jara Chikitsa exists as a separate branch but detailed descriptions are not available. We got the scattered references regarding prevention of Jara and management of old age problems. Mainly Rasayanas of different types are mentioned for prevention as well as promotion of health in old age. The Rasayana drugs and Panchakarma. Therapies not only promote the physical health but beneficial effects also seen on brain and its functional areas. Different Rasayanas and Panchakarma therapies with their effects will be detailed described in full paper.