key terms
Alzheimer's disease
A form of dementia that casues progressive changes in brain cells
Bronchitis
The bronchioles become inflammed decrease the efficeincy and function of the respiratory system even more severely
Dementia
brain syndome, is a loss of mental ability characterized by a decreased in intellectual ability, loss of memory, impaired judgment, personality change, and disorientation
Geriatric care
Care provided to older individuals
Nocturia
urination at night, is common and disrupts the sleep patern
Arteriosclerosis
A condition in which the walls of blood vessels become thi k and lose their electricity, is common in elderly individuals
Cataracts
Where the normally transparent lens of the eye becomes cloudy or opaque
Disability
A physical or mental defect or handicap that interferes with noral functions
Gerontology
The scientific study of aging and the problems of the old
Ombudsman
A specially trained individual who works with the elderly and their families, healt 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
Can result in permanent payalysis of one side of the body
Disease
Any condition that interfers with the normal function of the body
Glaucoma
A condition in which the intraocular pressure of the eye increases and interferes with vision is also more common in the elderly
Osteoporosis
A condition in which calsium and other minerals are lost from the bones, causes the bones to becoe brittle and more likely to fracture or break
Atherosclerosis
The vessels become narrow because of deposits of fat and minerals such as calcium.
Culture
values, beliefs, ideas, customs, and characteristics that are passed from one generation to the next
Dysphagia
frequent complaint of the elderly less saliva and slower gag reflex contribute to this problem
Incontinence
Inability to control urination
Reality orientation
consists of activities that help promote awareness of person, time and place
Autonomy
they assert their right to choose and strive to be independent
Delirium
The term used when confusion or disorientation is a temporary condition caused by a treatable condition.
Emphysema
The alveoli lose their elasticity, or bronchitis in which the bronchioles become inflammed decreases the effiecency and function of the respiratory system even more severely
Myths
false information or beliefs
Senile lentigines
dark yellow or brown colored spots