Cognitive Changes Flashcards

Do older adults have increased susceptibility to stress?

Yes

What are the three stages of the stress response?

alarm --> resistance/recovery --> exhaustion

What is the first stage of the stress response?

Alarm

What is the second stage of the stress response?

Resistance/recovery

What is the third stage of the stress response?

Exhaustion

What five things increase in response to chronic stress?

increased BG, HR, BP, atherosclerosis, cardiac arrhythmia, fatigue

What cardiovascular factors increase in response to chronic stress?

HR, BP, atherosclerosis, and cardiac arrhythmia

What systemic and metabolic factors are listed as increasing in response to chronic stress?

BG (blood glucose) and fatigue

What one thing decreases in response to chronic stress?

immune system response

What level of stress do humans function best at?

moderate levels of stress

Why is alcoholism considered an "invisible epidemic" in older adults?

signs/symptoms are mistaken for dementia or depression and are not addressed

Which condition is described as an "invisible epidemic" in older adults?

Alcoholism

What are the three D's?

delirium, depression, dementia

What is delirium?

sudden onset, attention fluctuates --> but is reversible

What is the onset and attention pattern of delirium?

Sudden onset with fluctuating attention

Is delirium reversible or irreversible?

Reversible

What is depression?

persistent low mood or loss of interest

What is dementia?

gradual, progressive decline in cognition

How does the progression of dementia differ from delirium?

Dementia is a gradual, progressive decline, whereas delirium has a sudden onset and is reversible

True or False: Anxiety is common later in life.

True

What type of disorders are less common in older adults?

panic disorders

True or False: Confusion is a normal part of aging.

FALSE

What could sudden confusion possibly indicate?

delirium (medical emergency)

Why must sudden confusion indicating delirium be addressed immediately?

It is a medical emergency

What are three potential causes of confusion?

medication side effects, dehydration, infection