Definitions
Geriatrics
A branch of medicine that deals with the health care of elderly people.
managing multiple chronic illnesses, polypharmacy, frailty, falls, dementia, palliative care
Alzheimer's Disease (AD)
form of dementia that cauess progressive changes in brain
cells
Delirium
when confusion or disorientation is a temporary condition
caused by a treatable condition
Reality Orientation (RO)
activities that help promote awareness of person, time, and
place
Myth: Anyone over a certain age is old
Fact: old is determined by how an individual thinks, feels, and behaves
Elderly / Older Adults
A population group based on age.
WHO: people ≥60 years (in many countries ≥65 years).
Osteoporosis
condition where bones become weak, brittle, and more likely to fracture because of reduced bone mass and deterioration of bone tissue.
Dysphagia
difficulty swallowing
Fall prevention
safe home environment (remove loose rugs, install grab bars, good lighting).
Myth: Elderly people are incompetent and incapable of making decisions or handling their own affairs
Fact: Majority of elderly individuals remain mentally competent until they die, and often make better decisions and have better judgement.
Disability
a physical or mental defect or handicap that interfers with
normal functions
Parkinson’s disease
A progressive neurodegenerative disorder caused by the loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra of the brain.
Incontinence
inability to control urination
care practices for dryness and itchiness
mild soaps, bath oils, moisturizing lotions, partial baths/less frequent baths, brushing of hair, shampooing less frequently
Myth: All elderly people live in poverty.
Fact: Less than 12% of adults 65+ live at the poverty level. Despite having limited incomes, they also have low expenses.
Disease
any condition that interferes with the normal function of the
body
Cataracts
when normally transparent lens of the eye becomes
cloudy/opaque
Senile Lentigines
dark yellow or brown colored spots
care practices for arthritis and/or osteoporosis
a diet rich in protein, calcium, and vitamins; medication; Vitamin D
Myth: Most elderly individuals are cared for in institutions or long-term care facilities
Fact: Only ~5% of elderly live in LCF, with most living in their own homes/apartments, or with family members.
Gerontology
Gerontology is the scientific study of aging and older adults, focusing on the biological, psychological, and social aspects of growing old.
Dementia
brain syndrome, loss of mental ability characterized by a
decrease in intellectual ability, loss of memory, impaired
judgment, personality change, and disorientation.
Nocturia
urination at night
Cognitive stimulation
puzzles, reading, memory games.
Myth: Older people are unhappy and lonely
Fact: Most elderly individuals live with someone and/or interact with friends ro family, are active in civic groups, or provide care for grandchildren/extended families.