Chapter 09: Geriatric Care Key Terms
Alzheimer's disease
A form of dementia that causes progressive changes in brain cells.
Bronchitis
Bronchioles become inflamed
Dementia
Loss of mental ability characterized by a decrease in intellectual ability, loss of memory, impaired judgement, personality change, and disorientation.
Geriatric care
Care provided to older individuals
Nocturia
Urination at night
Arteriosclerosis
Thickening and hardening of the walls of the arteries
Cataracts
Normal transparent lens of the eye become cloudy or opaque
Disability
Physical or mental defect or handicap that interferes with normal function.
Gerontology
Scientific study of aging and problems of the old
Ombudsman
Specially trained individual who works with the elderly and their families
Arthritis
Inflammation of the joints
Cerebrovascular accident
Stroke
Disease
Any condition that interferes with the normal function of the body
Glaucoma
Condition in which the intraocular pressure of the eye increases and interferes with vision
Osteoporosis
Condition in which calcium and other minerals are lost from the bones
Atherosclerosis
Thickening and hardening of the arteries caused by build up of plaque
Culture
Values, beliefs, ideas, customs, and characteristics that are passed down one generation to the next
Dysphagia
Difficulty swallowing
Incontinence
Inability to control urination
Reality orientation
Activities that help promote awareness of 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 condition
Emphysema
Chronic condition of alveoli lose their elasticity
Myths
False beliefs
Senile lentigines
Dark yellow or brown colored spots