Chapter 09: Geriatric Care Key Terms
Alzheimer's disease
A form of dementia that causes progressive changes in brain cells
Arteriosclerosis
A condition in which the walls of blood vessels become thick and lose their elasticity
Arthritis
Inflammation of the joints, causes the joints to become stiff, less flexible, and painful
Atherosclerosis
The vessels become narrow because of deposits of fat and minerals, such as calcium
Autonomy
Self-governance or the ability to decide for oneself by making choices and pursuing a course of action
Bronchitis
The bronchioles become inflamed
Cataracts
Where the normally transparent lens of the eyes becomes cloudy or opaque
Cerebrovascular accident
A stroke
Values, beliefs, ideas, customs, and characteristics that are passed from one generation to the next
Delirium
When confusion or disorientation is a temporary condition caused by a treatable condition
Dementia
A loss of mental ability characterized by a decrease in intellectual ability, loss of memory, impaired judgement, personality change, and disorientation
A physical or mental defect or handicap that interferes with normal functions
Disease
Any condition that interferes with the normal function of the body
Dysphagia (Difficult swallowing)
A frequent complaint of the elderly
Emphysema
Which the alveoli lose their elasticity
Geriatric Care
Care provided to older individuals.
Glaucoma
A condition in which the intraocular pressure of the eye increases and interferes with vision
Myths
False beliefs
Ombudsman
Ensures the rights of the elderly
Reality orientation
Consists of activities that help promote awareness of person, time, and place
Gerontology
The scientific study of aging and the problems of the old
Incontinence
The inability to control urination caused by loss of muscle tone
Nocturia
Urination at night
Osteoporosis
A condition in which calcium and other minerals are lost from the bones
Senile lentigines
Dark yellow or brown colored spots on the skin