Ch. 09 Geriatric Care - Key Terms Ch. 09 Geriatric Care - Key Terms
Alzheimer’s Disease
A progressive, irreversible brain disorder that causes a gradual deterioration of memory, reasoning, language, and physical functioning.
Bronchitis
A respiratory condition where the bronchioles (air tubes in the lungs) become inflamed, decreasing the efficiency of the respiratory system.
Dementia
A broad term for a loss of mental ability characterized by a decrease in intellectual function, loss of memory, impaired judgment, and disorientation.
Geriatric Care
Specialized care provided to older individuals.
Nocturia
Frequent urination at night, which can disrupt sleep patterns for the elderly.
Arteriosclerosis
The thickening and hardening of the walls of the arteries, which typically occurs as a normal part of the aging process.
Cataracts
: A condition where the normally transparent lens of the eye becomes cloudy or opaque, interfering with vision.
Disability
A physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.
Gerontology
The scientific study of aging and the problems of the old.
Ombudsman
A specially trained individual who acts as an advocate for residents in long-term care facilities to ensure their rights are protected and complaints are heard.
Arthritis
An inflammation of the joints that causes them to become stiff, less flexible, and painful.
Cerebrovascular Accident
Also known as a stroke; occurs when blood flow to the brain is impaired, resulting in a lack of oxygen and destruction of brain cells.
Disease
Any condition that interferes with the normal function of the body.
Glaucoma
A condition in which the intraocular pressure of the eye increases and interferes with vision.
Osteoporosis
A condition in which calcium and other minerals are lost from the bones, causing them to become brittle and more likely to fracture.
Atherosclerosis
A condition in which fatty plaques (cholesterol) deposit on the inner walls of the arteries, narrowing the passage and reducing blood flow
Culture
The values, beliefs, ideas, customs, and characteristics passed from one generation to the next.
Dysphagia
Difficulty in swallowing, often caused by decreased saliva, a slower gag reflex, or structural changes in the digestive tract.
Incontinence
The inability to control urination or bowel movements.
Reality Orientation
Activities and techniques designed to help confused or disoriented individuals maintain awareness of person, time, and place.
Autonomy
The right of an individual to make their own decisions and maintain independence.
Delirium
A state of temporary but acute mental confusion, often caused by treatable physical conditions like infection or dehydration.
Emphysema
A chronic respiratory condition in which the alveoli (air sacs) lose their elasticity, making it difficult to breathe.
Myths
False beliefs; specifically, false beliefs regarding aging and the capabilities of elderly individuals.
Senile Lentigines
Dark yellow or brown colored spots that appear on the skin of the elderly, commonly referred to as "liver spots."