Older Adults

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary and concepts related to the care of older adults, including myths, clinical judgment, mental health, and functional changes.

Myths and Stereotypes about Older Adults

Common misconceptions that can negatively affect nursing care for elderly patients.

Clinical Judgment

The ability of a nurse to interpret signs and symptoms in older adults based on their clinical experience and knowledge.

Developmental Tasks of Older Adults

Common tasks that older adults face, including coping with changes in health and functioning.

Physiological Changes of Aging

Normal bodily changes that occur with age, impacting how illnesses affect older adults.

Delirium

A sudden change in mental status characterized by confusion and disorientation.

Dementia

A progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects memory and cognitive function.

Depression

A mental health condition that can occur in older adults, often misunderstood as normal aging.

Elder Mistreatment

Abuse or neglect of older adults, which can be both physical and psychological in nature.

Functional Status

A measure of an older adult's ability to perform daily living activities, including ADLs and IADLs.

Person-Centered Care

A nursing approach that emphasizes individual needs and preferences of older adults.

Acute Confusion State

A temporary state of confusion often seen in older adults due to various factors such as illness or medication.

Polypharmacy

The concurrent use of multiple medications by a patient, particularly common in older adults.

Health Literacy

The ability to understand and make informed health decisions, especially important for older adults.

Community Resources

Services and programs available in the community that can assist older adults in maintaining independence.