CLASSWORK - Ch. 09 Geriatric Care - Key Terms
What is Alzheimer’s disease?
A progressive and irreversible brain disorder characterized by the buildup of abnormal proteins (amyloid plaques and tau tangles), leading to a gradual deterioration of memory, reasoning, language, and physical functioning.
What is arteriosclerosis?
A general medical term for the hardening and stiffening of artery walls from any cause, which can interfere with blood flow and increase blood pressure.
What is arthritis?
Inflammation of one or more joints, often resulting in pain, swelling, stiffness, and a decreased range of motion.
What is atherosclerosis?
A specific type of arteriosclerosis where fatty deposits called plaque build up on the inner walls of medium and large arteries, potentially leading to narrowing or blockages.
What is autonomy in healthcare?
The right of a patient to make their own decisions regarding their medical care and treatment.
What is bronchitis?
Inflammation of the lining of the bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from the lungs.
What are cataracts?
A clouding of the normally clear lens of the eye, leading to a decrease in vision.
What is a cerebrovascular accident?
Commonly known as a stroke, it is a disruption in the normal blood supply to the brain, causing brain cell death.
What is culture?
The collective beliefs, customs, arts, and institutions of a particular group of people.
What is delirium?
A serious disturbance in mental abilities that results in confused thinking and reduced awareness of the environment.
What is dementia?
A general term for a decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily life, of which Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause.
What is a disability?
A physical or mental condition that limits a person’s movements, senses, or activities.
What is a disease?
A particular abnormal condition that negatively affects the structure or function of all or part of an organism.
What is dysphagia?
Difficulty swallowing, which can be a symptom of various medical conditions, including advanced neurological disorders.
What is emphysema?
A chronic lung condition that causes shortness of breath due to over-inflation of the alveoli (air sacs in the lungs).
What is geriatric care?
Specialized medical care for older adults, focusing on the unique health needs and challenges associated with aging.
What is gerontology?
The scientific study of old age, the process of aging, and the particular problems of older people.
What is glaucoma?
A group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often caused by abnormally high pressure in the eye.
What is incontinence?
The involuntary loss of bladder or bowel control.
What are myths?
Widely held but false beliefs or ideas, often related to aging or health conditions.
What is nocturia?
A condition where a person wakes up one or more times during the night to urinate.
What is an ombudsman?
An official appointed to investigate individuals’ complaints against maladministration, especially that of public authorities or care facilities.
What is osteoporosis?
A medical condition in which the bones become brittle and fragile from loss of tissue, typically due to hormonal changes or a deficiency of calcium or vitamin D.
What is reality orientation?
A therapeutic technique used with individuals with cognitive impairment to help them stay aware of their environment, time, and identity.
What are senile lentigines?
Often called age spots or liver spots, these are flat, brown, or black spots on the skin that occur due to sun exposure and aging.