CH. 09 KEY TERMS
alzheimer's disease
a form of dementia that causes progressive changes in brain cells
bronchitis
when the bronchioles become inflamed
dementia
a loss of mental ability characterized by a decrease in intellectual ability
geriatric care
are provided to older individuals
nocturia
urination at night
arteriosclerosis
a condition in which the walls of blood vessels become thick and lose their elasticity
cataracts
where the normally transparent lens of the eye becomes cloudy or opaque
disability
a physical or mental defect or handicap that interferes with normal functions
gerontology
the scientific study of aging and the problems of the old
ombudsman
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.
arthritis
an inflammation of the joints
cerebrovascular accident
a stroke
disease
any condition that interferes with the normal function of the body
glaucoma
a condition in which the intraocular pressure of the eye increases and interferes with vision
osteoporosis
a condition in which calcium and other minerals are lost from the bones, making them brittle and fragile.
atherosclerosis
When vessels become narrow because of deposits of fat and minerals
culture
the values, beliefs, ideas, customs, and characteristics that are passed from one generation to the next
dysphagia
difficult swallowing
incontinence
the inability to control urination
reality orientation
consists of activities that help promote awareness of the person, time, and place
autonomy
self - governance or the ability to decide for oneself by making choices and pursuing a course of action
delirium
confusion or disorientation is a temporary condition caused by treatable conditions
emphysema
when the alveoli lose their elasticity
myths
false beliefs
senile lentigines
dark yellow or brown colored spots