Aging Final

Stochastic theory

Aging occurs due to random events.

Cross-linking theory

DNA mutations over time hinder function.

Free-radicals theory

Aging results from oxidative metabolism and free radicals.

Lipofusion theory

Accumulation of oxidized lipids interferes with cellular processes.

Wear and tear theory

Breakdown from use over time.

Evolutionary theory

Aging due to mutations and natural selection.

Biogerontology

Aging caused by bacteria, fungi, etc., leading to disease processes.

Nonstochastic theory

Aging is predetermined, not random.

Programmed/apoptosis

Cell death is programmed.

Genetic theories

Aging influenced by a biological clock.

Autoimmune reactions

Decreased immune function leads to self-attack.

Neuroendocrine/chemical

Aging due to brain and hormonal changes.

Radiation

Mutations from radiation promote aging.

Nutrition

Diet impacts the aging process.

Environmental

External factors affect health.

Disengagement theory

People withdraw as they age.

Activity theory

Remaining active to maintain function.

Continuity theory

Aging in line with one's personality.

Subculture theory

Older individuals form a distinct age group.

Age stratification theory

Interaction among different age groups.

Modernization

Decreased value of older individuals leading to social exclusion.

Developmental theory

Erikson's idea of ego integrity vs. despair.

Geotranscendence

Viewing the world broadly.

Functional consequences theory

Promoting wellness holistically.

Theory of thriving

Linking life impacts for a holistic view of aging.

Theory of Successful Aging

Considers physical, mental, spiritual well-being.

Functionalist theory

Transitioning to age-appropriate roles.

Common chronic conditions

Hypertension, high cholesterol, arthritis, etc.

Baby Boomers

Born 1946-1964, entering senior years between 2011-2030.

Effects of agism

Negative impact on physical and mental health.

Types of care in the long-term care continuum

Nursing home, assisted living, home care, etc.

Home Health Aide

Hired privately to assist older adults or disabled individuals with activities of daily living to support independent living.

Adult Day Centers

Community-based providers offering daily care and social services for participants, funded through various sources including state subsidy programs.

Area Agencies on Aging (AAA)

Organizations that help older adults and people with disabilities live independently by providing assessments, education, services, and program development.

Physical Changes in Aging

Metabolic decrease, muscle mass loss, dehydration risk, skin changes, vision and hearing decline, and changes in various body systems.

Falls Prevention Methods

Strategies like exercise, proper lighting, hazard removal, assistive devices, vision checks, medication review, vitamin D intake, and home modifications.

Risks in Acute Care Hospitalizations

Increased medical issues, risk of healthcare-associated infections, loss of function, medication challenges, delirium, and the importance of discharge planning.

Diversity in Dementia Care

Cultural considerations in caring for diverse populations, including beliefs, lifestyle factors, and disparities in dementia diagnosis and care.

End-of-Life Care Diversity

Palliative care for serious illness, end-of-life care for terminally ill individuals, cultural influences on care preferences, and the role of communication in diverse populations.

LGBT Elders

More likely to be single, live alone, face poverty, homelessness, and poor health. Rely on families of choice, experience victimization, and discrimination.

Caregiver Well-being

Family caregivers face neglect, stress-related diseases, and sleep disturbances. They may unintentionally neglect care and have declining health.

Dementia

Umbrella term for cognitive decline affecting daily life. Includes Alzheimer's, Vascular, Lewy Body, and Frontotemporal Dementia. Diagnosis involves cognitive impairment in memory, language, and daily function.

Gerontological Nursing

Involves evidence-based practice, standards, competencies, and nursing principles. Roles include healer, caregiver, educator, advocate, and innovator.

Age-Friendly Health System

Focuses on the 4 M's - Mentation (cognition), Medication (polypharmacy), Mobility, and Matters (individual preferences). Promotes autonomy and shared decision-making.

Legal Aspects in Gerontological Nursing

Informed consent, durable power of attorney, duty, HIPAA, malpractice, negligence, and guardianship types. Emphasizes respecting patient autonomy and advanced directives.

Ethics in Healthcare

Autonomy, beneficence, confidentiality, fidelity, justice, nonmaleficence, veracity, utilitarianism, egoism, relativism, and absolutism. Guiding principles for ethical behavior in healthcare.

Elder Abuse

High suspicion for elder abuse or neglect in capacity issues. Important to protect vulnerable older adults from harm.

Dementia and Opinions

People with dementia can express opinions about their care, don't underestimate their ability.

Informed Risks

Older individuals have the right to take calculated risks after being informed.

Decision-making Capacity

Providers play a role in assessing a person's capacity to make decisions.

Future Planning

Plan ahead so that Persons Living with Dementia (PLwD) can participate in decision-making while still capable.

Long Term Care Costs

It can be challenging to secure funding for long-term care needs.

Guardianship

A legal process by the court for individuals without a Power of Attorney (POA) or in cases of family dysfunction.

Capacity Assessment

Evaluation of understanding, appreciation, choice expression, and rationalization for decision-making.

Ethical Considerations

Key ethical principles include beneficence, nonmaleficence, respect for autonomy, and privacy/confidentiality.

Sexual Health in Older Adults

Sexual functions may change, but older adults remain sexual beings.

Elder Abuse

Financial exploitation is the most common form, often perpetrated by family caregivers.

Cultural Autonomy

Individuals have the right to live according to their cultural norms, even if not universally accepted.

Awareness of Abuse

People may be unaware of what constitutes abuse, necessitating education and vigilance.

Objectivity

Base decisions on facts and observations, avoiding biases that may cloud judgment.