Last updated: 27 Aug 2025 | 133 Views |
What Are Geriatric Diseases?
Geriatric diseases refer to a group of health conditions commonly found in individuals aged 60 and above. At this stage of life, it is natural for people to experience various physical, emotional, and cognitive changes, including the gradual decline of bodily systems and a reduced ability to recover from illness or injury. These conditions in the elderly typically exhibit four key characteristics:
Multiple Comorbidities: An elderly person may suffer from several chronic conditions simultaneously, such as hypertension, diabetes, and osteoarthritis.
Atypical Presentation of Symptoms: For instance, in the case of an infection, instead of a high fever, older adults may exhibit symptoms like confusion or fatigue.
Slower or Altered Response to Treatment: The elderly often respond differently to medical interventions compared to younger individuals.
Higher Risk of Complications: For example, a fall could lead to fractures, or minor infections may escalate into severe conditions.
Who Are the Elderly in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the classification of an individual as “elderly” is not determined by age alone. It also considers the holistic state of the body, mind, and the balance of Qi (vital energy), based on Chinese philosophical concepts. One foundational idea comes from the classical TCM text Huangdi Neijing (Yellow Emperor’s Inner Canon), which explains the body’s changes across life stages:
For Women (Cycles of 7 Years):
| Stage | Age (Years) | Physiological Changes |
| 1-3 | 7-21 | Growth stage; menstruation begins. |
| 3-5 | 21-35 | Peak physical condition. |
| 5 | 35 | Decline begins; Yangming energy weakens, skin darkens, and hair begins to fall. |
| 6 | 42 | Decline in the three Yang meridians; dull complexion and graying hair. |
| 7 | 49 | Ren Mai weakens, Tai Chong declines; menstruation ceases and fertility ends. |
For Men (Cycles of 8 Years):
| Stage | Age (Years) | Physiological Changes |
| 1-3 | 8-24 | Growth stage; sperm production begins. |
| 3-5 | 24-40 | Peak physical condition. |
| 5 | 40 | Kidney Qi begins to decline; hair loss and receding gums. |
| 6 | 48 | Upper Yang Qi weakens; dull skin and graying beard/hair. |
| 7 | 56 | Liver Qi weakens; joint stiffness, decline in fertility, and reduced kidney function. |
| 8 | 64 | Hair and teeth loss; reduced sperm; kidney essence declines and reproductive capacity ends. |
Beyond Age: Holistic View of Organ Function in the Elderly
In addition to age-based stages, TCM considers overall health, particularly the condition of the Kidneys, which are regarded as the “Root of Life.” With aging, the following organ systems often weaken, leading to corresponding symptoms:
| Organ | Symptoms Common in the Elderly |
| Liver | Dry eyes, blurry vision, joint stiffness, irritability. |
| Heart | Palpitations, insomnia, memory loss, anxiety. |
| Spleen | Poor appetite, bloating, fatigue, weakness. |
| Lungs | Chronic cough, allergies, asthma, low immunity. |
| Kidneys | Lower back/knee pain, hearing loss, frequent urination, memory decline. |
How Does TCM Treat Geriatric Diseases?
Traditional Chinese Medicine focuses on holistic healing and restoring balance within the body. The approach emphasizes prevention, immune strengthening, and internal recovery. TCM diagnosis typically begins with pulse reading to assess organ function and overall health, leading to a tailored treatment plan. Common TCM treatments include: Acupuncture, Chinese Herbal Medicine, Tui Na (Chinese therapeutic massage)
Examples of Geriatric Diseases and TCM Approaches
| Disease/Symptom | TCM Treatment Approach |
| Stroke / Paralysis | Acupuncture and Chinese herbs to restore nerve function and mobility. |
| Osteoarthritis / Knee Pain | Acupuncture, Tui Na, and herbal therapy to nourish joints and relieve pain. |
| Diabetes | Acupuncture to regulate metabolism, herbal medicine to control blood sugar levels. |
| Hypertension | Acupuncture to balance the body's systems and herbs to clear heat and stabilize blood pressure. |
| Insomnia / Anxiety | Acupuncture and herbs to calm the mind and regulate sleep. |
Why Use Traditional Chinese Medicine for the Elderly?
1. Focus on Restoring Balance – TCM strengthens the immune system and promotes internal healing.
2. Holistic Care – Treats the whole body, not just symptoms, and emphasizes disease prevention.
3. Reduces Chemical Drug Use – Minimizes unnecessary medications and side effects.
4. Effective for Chronic and Degenerative Conditions – Helps manage diseases like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, dementia, Parkinson’s, and chronic pain.
5. Individualized Treatment – Each patient is diagnosed and treated based on their unique condition, as two elderly individuals may have the same disease but different internal imbalances.
---------------------------------------------------
Article by:
罗如珊 中医师
TCM. Dr. Rifhan Yusoh (Luo Ru Shan)
