Geriatric Nursing and Human Development Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards covering age-related physiological changes, nutritional needs, pain types, and nursing care concepts in geriatrics.

Presbyopia

Inability for lens adjustment resulting in farsightedness as part of age-related eye changes.

Glaucoma

An eye condition caused by increased intraocular pressure.

Presbycusis

Age-related hearing loss caused by the loss of auditory hair cells, mainly affecting upper frequencies.

Presbyesophagus

A condition in the gastrointestinal system where the lining of the esophagus is weakened due to aging.

Peristalsis

Wave-like muscle contractions in the digestive tract that promote movement of food, which decrease with age.

Nocturia

Frequent nighttime urination linked to anti-diuretic hormone (ADH) changes and improved circulation to the kidneys when lying down.

Dowager's Hump (Kyphosis)

Diminished height and forward rounding of the spine caused by osteoporosis in older adults.

Triglyceride

Stored fat that helps maintain the function and integrity of cell membranes.

Fiber (Roughage)

The portion of plants that resists digestion, functioning to prevent constipation, lower glucose and cholesterol, and aid in weight reduction.

Dysphagia

Difficulty chewing and/or swallowing, requiring interventions to reduce the risk of choking and aspiration.

Anorexia

Loss of appetite in older adults that can lead to inadequate intake and nutritional deficits.

Acute Pain

Pain with an abrupt onset lasting less than $6\text{ months}$.

Chronic Pain

Discomfort lasting greater than $6\text{ months}$, placing patients at risk for anger, depression, powerlessness, and frustration.

Neuropathic Pain

Pain caused by abnormal processing of sensory stimuli by the nervous system.

Nociceptive Pain

A normal pain response to tissue damage or external stimuli.

Referred Pain

Pain that originates in one area of the body but is perceived in another.

Intractable Pain

Severe, untreatable pain that is resistant to standard pain management interventions.

Polypharmacy

The concurrent use of multiple medications, which increases the risk of drug interactions and medication errors.

MyPlate for Older Adults

A nutrition guide tailored for aging individuals, emphasizing deeply colored fruits and vegetables, fortified grains, low-fat dairy, lean proteins, adequate fluids, and physical activity.

Hospice Nursing

Care provided to terminally ill clients focusing on maximizing pain relief and quality of life across physical, psychological/emotional, social/cultural, and spiritual dimensions.

Ego Integrity

A state of wholeness in healthy aging where a person feels their life experiences served a purpose, whether good or bad.