Ch. 09 Geriatric Care - Key Terms
Alzheimer’s disease
A progressive, irreversible brain disorder characterized by gradual deterioration of memory, reasoning, and physical functioning. It is the most common cause of dementia.
Cataracts
A medical condition in which the lens of the eye becomes progressively opaque, resulting in blurred or clouded vision.
Emphysema
A chronic lung condition where the air sacs (alveoli) are damaged, leading to shortness of breath.
Gerontology
The scientific study of old age, the process of aging, and the particular problems of old people.
Autonomy:
The right or condition of self-government; in healthcare, it refers to a patient's right to make their own decisions about their medical care.
Arteriosclerosis
A general term for the thickening and hardening of the walls of the arteries, which typically occurs in old age.
Cerebrovascular accident (CVA):
Commonly known as a stroke; it occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is shut off by a blockage or a ruptured blood vessel, causing brain cell death.
Glaucoma
A group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often caused by abnormally high pressure in the eye, which can lead to blindness.
Geriatric care
Healthcare specifically focused on the elderly, aimed at promoting health and preventing/treating diseases and disabilities in older adults.
Culture
The shared beliefs, values, customs, and behaviors of a specific group of people.
Arthritis
Inflammation of one or more joints, causing pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion.
Delirium
A state of severe confusion and rapid changes in brain function, often temporary and reversible, usually triggered by illness or medication.
Osteoporosis
A condition in which bones become weak, brittle, and porous, increasing the risk of fractures.
Incontinence
The inability to voluntarily control the evacuation of urine or feces.
Disability
A physical or mental condition that limits a person's movements, senses, or activities.
Atherosclerosis
: A specific type of arteriosclerosis where fatty deposits (plaques) build up on the inner walls of the arteries, narrowing them and restricting blood flow.
Dementia
An umbrella term for a decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily life (including memory loss and impaired judgment).
Thrombus
A blood clot formed within the vascular system of the body which impedes blood flow.
Nocturia
The need to wake up one or more times during the night to urinate.
Disease
A disorder of structure or function in a human, animal, or plant, especially one that produces specific signs or symptoms.
Bronchitis
Inflammation of the mucous membrane in the bronchial tubes, often resulting in a persistent cough and phlegm.
Dysphagia
Difficulty or discomfort in swallowing.
Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIA)
Often called "mini-strokes"; brief episodes of neurological dysfunction caused by a temporary loss of blood flow to the brain, serving as a warning sign for a full stroke.
Senile lentigines
Flat, brown, or black spots on the skin (commonly called "age spots" or "liver spots") caused by sun exposure and aging.
Myths
Widely held but false beliefs or ideas (e.g., "all elderly people are senile").