Chapter 09: Geriatric Care
Alzheimer's disease
A form of dementia that causes progressive changes in brain cells.
Bronchitis
Inflammation of the bronchioles.
Dementia
- Loss of mental ability characterized by an decrease in intellectual ability, loss of memory, impaired judgment, personality change, and disorientation
Geriatric care
- Care 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
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
- 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, causes the joints to become more rigid, and the bones in the vertebral column press closer together.
Cerebrovascular accident
a 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
- A condition in which calcium and other minerals are lost from the bones, causes the bones to become brittle and more likely fracture or break.
Atherosclerosis
The vessels become narrow because of deposits of fat and minerals, such as calcium
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
therapeutic technique mainly for older people.
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 a treatable condition.
Emphysema
- The alveoli lose their elasticity.
Myths
- False beliefs.
Senile lentigines
- Dark yellow or brown colored spots.