Ch. 09 Geriatric Care - Key Terms
Alzheimer's disease
a form of dementia
Bronchitis
the bronchioles become inflamed and decrease the efficiency and function of the respiratory system
Dementia
also called brain syndrome is a loss of mental ability characterized by a decrease in intellectual ability, loss of memory, impaired judgement, personality change, and disorientation
Glaucoma
a condition in which the intraocular pressure of the eye increases and interferes with vision
Reality orientation
used when caring for confused patients
Arteriosclerosis
the walls of blood vessels become thick and lose their elasticity
Cataracts
the normally transparent lens of the eye becomes cloudy and opaque
Disability
a physical or mental defect or handicap that interferes with normal functions
Incontinence
loss of muscle tone
Senile lentigines
dark yellow or brown colored spots
Arthritis
an inflammation of the joint causes the joints to become stiff, less flexible and painful
Cerebrovascular accident
stroke that can lead to permanent paralysis to one side of the bod (hemiplegia)
Disease
usually defined as any condition that interferes with the normal function of the body
Nocturia
urination at night is common and disrupts the sleep pattern
Spiritual
the beliefs and practices of an individual
Atherosclerosis
the vessels become narrow due to deposits of fat and minerals
Culture
the values, beliefs, ideas, customs, and characteristics that are passed from one generation to the next
Dysphagia
difficulty swallowing
Ombudsman
specially trained individual who works with the elderly and their families, health care providers, and other concerned individuals to improve quality of care and life
Thrombus
blood clot
Autonomy
self governance or the ability to decide for oneself by making choices and pursuing a course of action
Delirium
when confusion or disorientation is a temporary condition caused by a treatable condition
Emphysema
the bronchioles become inflamed and decrease the efficiency and function of the respiratory system even more severely
Osteoporosis
a conditions in which calcium and other minerals are lost from the boned, cases the bones to become brittle and more likely to break or fracture
Transient ischemic attacks
ministrokes which result in temporary periods of diminished blood flow to the brain