Health Recommendations for the Elderly in the Viewpoint of Traditional Persian Medicine

Abstract

Background: Old age is one of the most important and longest periods of life in human beings. Identifying the effective factors in maintaining and promoting health in the elderly can prevent chronic diseases in this age group. Objective: This study aimed at presenting traditional Persian medicine (TPM) measures for maintaining the elderly’s health. Methods: This review article was conducted on traditional Persian medicine textbooks and Noor software to investigate the viewpoints of Iranian and Islamic scholars concerning maintenance of elderly’s health. Results: The elderly’s age range has been expressed differently in the traditional medicine. However, in most cases, those aged 40 to 60 years and above 60 have been considered as middle-aged and old aged, respectively. Temperament of both age groups are cold and dry, but the elderly suffer from the predominance of wetness in their main organs, which is the sign of attenuating their innate heat compared with the middle age groups. The elderly should use hot and wet foods and drink more frequently and avoid cupping and bloodletting. They should not be isolated and rest alone for long times. Visiting the elderly regularly warrants their mental and physical health; however, frequent and long-time visits may disturb their privacy and should be prohibited. Also, they are recommended not to omit their dinner and sleep early. Frequent intercourses may jeopardise their health and are not recommended. At last, a regular moderate physical activity to maintain their stamina and physical conditions in addition to a healthy diet and good relationship with family and friends should always be considered for this group. Conclusion: Health recommendations cited in traditional Persian medicine sources are usually safe, useful, and practical; thus, using them in everyday life routines of the elderly seems to be beneficial and improve their quality of life. However, rigorous and well- designed clinical trials should be tailored to prove the real efficacy of the aforementioned health measures in quality and life span of the elderly.