Myths
False Beliefs still exist regarding aging and elderly individuals
Alzheimer's Disease
A form of dementia that causes progressive changes in brain cells.
Dysphagia
Difficult swallowing
Gerontology
The scientific study of aging and the problems of the old
Activities that help promote awareness of person, time, and place
Spiritual
The beliefs and practices of an individual
Arthritis
Inflammation of the joints
The inability to control urination
Geriatric care
Care provided to older individuals
Thrombus
Blood Clot
Culture
Defined as the values, beliefs, ideas, customs, and characteristics that are passed from one generation to the next
Arteriosclerosis
A condition in which the walls of blood vessels become thick and lose their elasticity
Osteoporosis
A condition in which calcium and other minerals are lost from the bones
Disability
A physical or mental defect or handicap that interferes with normal functions
Cerebrovascular accident
Damages brain cells
Delirium
Confusion or Disorientation
Disease
Any condition that interferes with the normal function of the body
Nocturia
Urination at Night
Transient ischemic attacks
Mini Strokes
Autonomy
Self-governance or the ability to decide for oneself by making choices and pursuing a course of action
Dementia
A loss of mental ability characterized by a decrease in intellectual ability, loss of memory, impaired judgment, personality change, and disorientation
Bronchitis
The bronchioles become inflamed
Senile lentigines
dark yellow or brown colored spots
Cataracts
The normally transparent lens of the eye becomes cloudy or opaque
Ombudsman
Specially trained individual who works with the elderly and their families