Ch. 09 Geriatric Care - Key Terms
Alzheimer's disease
A progressive, irreversible brain disorder characterized by gradual deterioration of memory, reasoning, language, and, finally, physical functioning.
Arteriosclerosis
A condition where the walls of the arteries become thick and lose their elasticity; often associated with aging.
Arthritis
Inflammation of the joints, causing pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility.
Atherosclerosis
A specific type of arteriosclerosis where fatty plaques (cholesterol) deposit on the inner walls of the arteries, narrowing the blood vessel.
Autonomy
The right of patients to make their own decisions about their medical care and daily lives; independence.
Bronchitis
Inflammation of the bronchioles, which can cause chronic coughing and difficulty breathing.
Cataracts
A condition where the lens of the eye becomes cloudy or opaque, leading to a loss of vision.
Cerebrovascular accident
Commonly known as a stroke; occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted, resulting in brain cell death.
Culture
The values, beliefs, ideas, customs, and characteristics passed from one generation to the next.
Delirium
A state of temporary but acute mental confusion, often caused by treatable conditions like infection or dehydration.
Dementia
A loss of mental ability characterized by a decrease in intellectual ability, loss of memory, impaired judgment, and disorientation.
Disability
Any lost, absent, or impaired physical or mental function.
Disease
Any condition that interferes with the normal function of the body.
Dysphagia
Difficulty in swallowing, which can lead to choking or aspiration.
Emphysema
A chronic lung condition where the alveoli (air sacs) lose their elasticity, making it difficult to exhale.
Geriatric care
Specialized care provided to elderly individuals, focusing on their unique physical and emotional needs
Gerontology
The scientific study of aging and the problems associated with the elderly.
Glaucoma
A condition of increased intraocular pressure in the eye that interferes with vision and can lead to blindness.
Incontinence
The inability to voluntarily control urination or bowel movements.
Myths
False beliefs or misconceptions, such as the idea that all elderly people are senile or sickly.
Nocturia
Frequent urination at night, which often disrupts sleep
Ombudsman
A specially trained individual who acts as an advocate for residents in long-term care facilities to ensure their rights are protected.
Osteoporosis
A condition in which bones become porous and brittle, making them highly susceptible to fractures.
Reality orientation
Activities and techniques used to help confused or disoriented individuals maintain awareness of person, time, and place.
Transient ischemic attacks
Often called "mini-strokes"; brief episodes of decreased blood flow to the brain that cause temporary neurological impairment.