Ch. 09 Geriatric
A progressive, irreversible brain disorder characterized by gradual deterioration of memory, reasoning, language, and physical functioning.
Alzheimer's disease:
A condition where the normally transparent lens of the eye becomes cloudy or opaque.
Cataract
A chronic condition in which the alveoli lose their elasticity.
Emphysema
: Dark yellow or brown colored spots that appear on the skin.
Senile lentigines:
A physical or mental defect or handicap that interferes with normal function.
Disability
A condition in which the walls of the arteries become thick and lose their elasticity.
Arteriosclerosis
An interrupted supply of blood to the brain, caused by a formation of a thrombus, an embolus, or blood vessel hemorrhage.
Cerebrovascular accident
A condition in which the intraocular pressure of the eye increases and interferes with vision.
Glaucoma
A blood clot.
Thrombus
Any condition that interferes with the normal function of the body.
Disease
: An inflammation of the joints, causes the joints to become stiff, less flexible, and painful.
Arthritis
Acute, reversible confusion and disorientation caused by treatable physical or mental conditions.
Delirium
The inability to control urination.
Incontinence
Transient ischemic attacks
Brief episodes of misfiring in the brain caused by a localized lack of oxygen.
Care provided to older individuals.
Geriatric care:
A condition in which the walls of the arteries become narrow because of deposits of fat and minerals.
Atherosclerosis
A loss of mental ability characterized by a decrease in intellectual function, loss of memory, impaired judgment, and disorientation.
Dementia
Urination at night.
Nocturia
Independence or self-government.
Autonomy
The scientific study of aging and the problems of the old.
Gerontology
A condition in which the bronchioles become inflamed, decreasing the efficiency and function of the respiratory system.
Bronchitis
Difficult swallowing.
Dysphagia
A condition in which calcium and other minerals are lost from the bones, causes the bones to become brittle and more likely to fracture or break.
Osteoporosis
The values, beliefs, ideas, customs, and characteristics that are passed from one generation to the next.
Culture
A specially trained individual who works with the elderly and their families, health care providers, and other concerned individuals to improve quality of care and quality of life.
Ombudsman