diseases
alzheimers
a form of dementia that causes progressive changes in brain cells
autonomy
self-governance or the ability to decide for oneself by making choices and pursuing a course of action
incontinence
the inability to control urination
reality orientation
consists of activities that help promote awareness of person, time, and place
disease
any condition that interferes with the normal function of the body
arthritis
inflammation of the joints
bronchitis
when the bronchioles become inflamed
myths
false beliefs
thrombus
blood clots
arteriosclerosis
a disease where the blood vessels carry oxygen away from the heart
dementia
a loss of mental ability characterized by a decrease in intellectual ability
Cerebrovascular accident
a stroke that damages brain cells
nocturia
urination at night
cultures
the values, beliefs, ideas customs and characteristics that are passed from one generation to the next
atherosclerosis
the buildup of fats, cholesterol and other substances
emphysema
when the alveoli lose their elasticity
disability
a physical or mental defect or handicap that interferes with normal functions
ombudsman
a 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
cataracts
where the normally transparent lens of the eye becomes cloudy or opaque
geriatric care
care provided to older individuals
glaucoma
a condition in which the intraocular pressure of the eye increases and interferes with vision
dysphagia
difficulty swallowing
osteoporosis
a condition in which calcium and other minerals are lost from the bones
delirium
a term used when confusion or disorientation is a temporary condition caused by a treatable condition
gerontology
the scientific study of aging and the problems of the old