Key Terms
Alzheimer’s disease
A form of dementia that causes progressive changes in brain cells, leading to memory loss, confusion, personality changes, and a gradual inability to perform activities of daily living.
Bronchitis
A condition in which the bronchioles become inflamed, decreasing the efficiency and function of the respiratory system.
Dementia
A loss of mental ability characterized by decreased intellectual function, impaired judgment, memory loss, personality changes, and disorientation.
Geriatric care
Health care specifically provided to elderly individuals to meet their physical, psychological, and social needs.
Nocturia
Frequent urination during the night that disrupts sleep.
Arteriosclerosis
A condition in which the walls of blood vessels become thick and lose elasticity, reducing blood flow and increasing the risk of stroke and other circulatory problems.
Cataracts
A condition in which the normally transparent lens of the eye becomes cloudy or opaque, interfering with vision.
Disability
A physical or mental defect or handicap that interferes with normal functioning and daily activities.
Gerontology
The scientific study of aging and the problems of the elderly.
Ombudsman
A specially trained individual who works with elderly individuals, families, and health care providers to protect rights, investigate complaints, and improve quality of care.
Arthritis
An inflammation of the joints that causes stiffness, pain, and decreased flexibility, commonly affecting elderly individuals.
Cerebrovascular accident
A stroke caused by a disruption of blood flow to the brain, which can result in paralysis, loss of function, or death of brain cells.
Disease
Any condition that interferes with the normal functioning of the body.
Glaucoma
A condition in which increased intraocular pressure interferes with vision and can lead to vision loss.
Osteoporosis
A condition in which calcium and other minerals are lost from the bones, making them brittle and more likely to fracture.
Atherosclerosis
A condition caused by deposits of fat and minerals, such as calcium, building up in blood vessels, leading to narrowing of the vessels and reduced blood flow.
Culture
The values, beliefs, customs, and characteristics passed from one generation to the next that influence an individual’s behavior, lifestyle, and health care needs.
Dysphagia
Difficulty swallowing, commonly experienced by elderly individuals due to decreased muscle function and reduced saliva production.
Incontinence
The inability to control urination due to loss of muscle tone or urinary system changes.
Reality orientation
Techniques used to help confused individuals remain aware of person, place, and time.
Autonomy
The ability of an individual to make independent decisions and maintain control over their own life and daily activities.
Delirium
A temporary and treatable condition of confusion and disorientation caused by factors such as infection, dehydration, drug toxicity, or lack of oxygen.
Emphysema
A chronic respiratory condition in which the alveoli lose elasticity, reducing the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide.
Myths
False beliefs or misconceptions, such as incorrect assumptions about aging and the elderly.
Senile lentigines
Dark yellow or brown spots that appear on the skin with aging and are not related to liver disease.