Geriatric Healthcare Team - Vocabulary Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms from the notes on the geriatric healthcare team.

Geriatric Healthcare Team

A team of professionals from multiple disciplines who care for older adults (physicians, nurses, social workers, therapists, and others).

Geriatrician

A physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating health problems of elderly; typically completes a 3-year residency and board certification in internal medicine or family medicine.

Gerontology

The scientific study of aging and its effects on individuals and cultures; a multidisciplinary field across medicine, biology, psychology, sociology, and other sciences.

Gerontologist

A professional who specializes in aging (not necessarily a medical doctor); may come from fields such as dentistry, psychology, nursing, or social work and may pursue gerontology certification.

Credential in Gerontology

Credentials earned by professionals through coursework and continuing education to specialize in gerontology.

Occupational Therapy (OT)

Therapy that helps older adults regain independence in daily activities; can address recovery after stroke and may involve cognitive or mood considerations; associated with the American Occupational Therapy Association.

American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA)

The professional organization for occupational therapy in the United States.

Physical Therapy (PT)

Therapy focused on reducing pain and swelling, increasing flexibility, strength, coordination, and balance to maximize independence.

Gait Training

A PT process to improve walking ability using techniques and assistive devices to ensure safe mobility.

Assistive Devices

Tools or equipment (e.g., canes, walkers) used to aid mobility and daily tasks for older adults.

Interdisciplinary Care Conference

A meeting of team members from different disciplines who collaborate to set goals, make decisions, and share resources in geriatric care.

Rehabilitation

The process of recovering function after illness or injury, with goals of increasing independence and reducing disability.

Diet Modifications and Safe Swallowing

Dietary changes and feeding techniques designed to improve nutrition and ensure safe swallowing in older adults.

Dysphagia

Difficulty swallowing; a risk factor for aspiration managed with diet changes and specialized feeding techniques.

Pain Management

Strategies to reduce pain and swelling; a key component of physical therapy and geriatric care.

Common Geriatric Conditions

Frequent disorders in older adults such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, diabetes, osteoarthritis, multiple sclerosis, and cerebral palsy.

Independence and Functional Improvement

The goal of many geriatric therapies to maximize independence, improve daily functioning, and prevent decline.