Ch. 09 Geriatric Care - Key Terms
Alzheimer's disease
a form of dementia that causes progressive changes in the brain cells
Bronchitis
the bronchioles become inflamed decreases the efficiency and function of the respiratory system even more severly
Dementia
brain syndrome, a loss of mental ability characterized by a decrease in intellectual ability, loss of memory, impaired judgement, personality change, and disorientation
Geriatric care
care provided to older individuals
Nocturia
urination at night, is common and disrupts the sleep pattern
Arteriosclerosis
a condition which the walls of blood vessels become thick and lose their elasticity and is more common in elderly individuals
Cataracts
where the normally transparent lens of the eye becomes cloudy or opaque
Disability
a physical or mental handicap that interferes with normal functions
Gerontology
scientific study of aging
Ombudsman
specially trained individual who works with the elderly and their families, health care providers, and other concerend individuals to improve quality of care and quality of life
Arthritis
an inflammation of the joints, causes the joints to become stiff, less flexible, and painful
Cerebrovascular accident
damages the brain cells
Disease
any condition that intereferes with the normal function of the body
Glaucoma
condition in where 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, causes the bones to become brittle and more likely to fracture or break
Atherosclerosis
the vessels become narrow because of deposits of fat and minerals, such as calcium
Culture
can be defined as the values, beliefs, ideas, customs, and characteristics that are passed from one generation to the next
Dysphagia
difficulty swallowing
Incontinence
inability to control urination due to loss of muscle tone
Reality orientation
consists of activities that help promote awareness of person, time, and place
Autonomy
self-governance or the ability to decide for oneself by making choices and pursuing a course of action, can be frustrating and upsetting
Delirium
when confusion of disorientation is a temporary condition caused by a treatable condition
Emphysema
a condition where alveoli lose their elasticity
Myths
false beliefs
Senile lentigines
dark yellow or brown colored spots appear