Samar Hazarika Passes Away At 75: Why ‘Immunosenescence’ Makes Pneumonia A Silent Killer For Elderly

Samar Hazarika Passes Away At 75: The death of the 75-year-old singer was confirmed by his family, who all live in separate houses perched on a hilltop in Nizarapur.

Samar Hazarika Passes Away At 75: Eminent singer Samar Hazarika, the youngest brother of Bharat Ratna Xudhakontho Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, passed away at his Nizarapar residency in Guwahati on January 30 at 8:45 AM. The death of the 75-year-old singer was confirmed by his family, who all live in separate houses perched on a hilltop in Nizarapur.

Samar Hazarika Cause of Death: Age-related Ailments, Pneumonia

Although Samar Hazarika's cause of death was not revealed by his family at the time of confirmation, reports suggest that the 79-year-old had been unwell and was undergoing treatment in a private hospital in the city. Additionally, the musician was also battling pneumonia and spent several days in the ICU before getting discharged.

Paying tribute to the late singer, Himanta Biswa Sarma, Chief Minister of Assam, wrote, "Anguished by the passing away of veteran singer Shri Samar Hazarika. His soulful voice lighted up every occasion and he made indelible contributions to Assam's cultural scenario. He also carried forward the rich legacy of Sudhakantha Dr. Bhupen Hazarika and extensively contributed in our efforts to celebrate his birth centenary. With his passing away, Assam has lost another golden voice. My thoughts and prayers with his family and admirers in this hour of grief."

Why 'Immunosenescence' Makes Pneumonia A Silent Killer For Elderly

Pneumonia is an acute respiratory infection that is caused by a virus, bacteria or fungi. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), pneumonia is a life-threatening illness in people of all ages. However, adults over the age of 65 and people with pre-existing health problems are at higher risk of the consequences of pneumonia, including death. The American Lung Association (ALA) states that pneumonia is more deadly to elderly people because their immune system becomes less able to fight off infection as years go by.

Cough, Chest Pain And More: Pneumonia Symptoms

The science and symptoms of pneumonia can vary from person to person and from to severe, depending on the progression of the life-threatening illness. However, some of the common symptoms of pneumonia may include:

• Chest pain when you cough or breathe
• Confusion in adult age 65 and older
• Fatigue
• Fever, sweating, and cold chills
• Lower normal body temperature in elderly people
• Diarrhoea
• Nausea
• Shortness of breath
• Vomiting

Tips To Manage Pneumonia In Elderly People

While medical professionals may prescribe antibiotics to fight bacterial or viral pneumonia. Following certain precaution tips at home can help elderly adults recover faster from pneumonia:

• If you are taking care of an elderly adult who is struggling with pneumonia and smokes regardless, discourage them from exacerbating the symptoms into severe respiratory problems
• Provide plenty of fluid like lukewarm water, soups or juice for soothing a sore throat or muscle aches and help loosen body secretions, allowing phlegm to be expelled easily
• Ensure that your elderly patient gets enough sleep and rest to recover faster from the respiratory illness
• Stay positive and calm while you follow these basic tips to help your loved one get better

This respiratory illness typically takes 10 to 15 days to get better, but elderly adults can take longer, even up to 6 to 8 weeks, to get back to normal. Therefore, if you know anyone, including your parents, grandparents, or loved ones over the age of 65 and experiencing symptoms that are linked to pneumonia, immediately take them to a doctor.