Ch. 09 Geriatric Care - Key Terms
What is Alzheimer's disease
A form of dementia that causes progressive changes in brain cells. Individuals with AD lack a neurotransmitter, or chemical, that allows messages to pass between nerve cells in the brain.
What is bronchitis
bronchioles become inflamed,
What is dementia
Dementia, also called brain syndrome, is a loss of mental ability characterized by a decrease in intellectual ability, loss of memory, impaired judgment, personality change, and disorientation.
What is geriatric care
Geriatric care is care provided to older individuals.
What is ombudsman
ensures the rights of elderly individuals
What is arteriosclerosis
Arteriosclerosis, a condition in which the walls of blood vessels become thick and lose their elasticity, is common in elderly individuals.
What is cataracts
Where the normally transparent lens of the eye becomes cloudy or opaque.
What is disability
A disability is defined as a physical or mental defect or handicap that interferes with normal functions.
What is gerontology
Gerontology is the scientific study of aging and the problems of the old.
What is osteoporosis
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.
What is arthritis
Arthritis, an inflammation of the joints, causes the joints to become stiff, less flexible, and painful.
What is culture
Culture can be defined as the values, beliefs, ideas, customs, and characteristics that are passed from one generation to the next.
What is disease
Disease is usually defined as any condition that interferes with the normal function of the body.
What is incontinence
the inability to control urination
What is reality orientation
The activities can be followed by anyone caring for the confused individual, whether the care is in the home or in a long-term care facility.
What is atherosclerosis
thickening or hardening of the arteries caused by a buildup of plaque in the inner lining of an artery
What is cerebrovascular accident
a cerebrovascular accident, or stroke, can result in permanent paralysis of one side of the body, or hemiplegia
What is dysphagia
Difficult breathing
What is myths
False beliefs
What is senile lentigines
Dark yellow or brown colored spots
What is autonomy
self-governance or the ability to decide for oneself by making choices and pursuing a course of action
What is delirium
Confusion or disorientation is a temporary condition caused by a treatable condition.
What is emphysema
The alveoli lose their elasticity
What is nocturia
Urination at night
What is thrombus
Blood clot