Advanced Old Age: Over 75

A comprehensive set of flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to aging and elder care, designed for students studying advanced old age.

Senescence

The process of aging, or the gradual deterioration of functional characteristics.

Geriatrics

The branch of medicine that focuses on the biological, psychological, and sociological aspects of aging.

Older adults

Individuals aged 65 and older, many of whom are living longer and require more healthcare.

Immortality vs. Extinction

A developmental task focused on finding meaning in life, as opposed to the finality of death.

Health Promotion 2030

A set of goals aimed at enhancing the health and well-being of older adults.

Biological theory of aging

A theory which suggests that aging is a result of accumulated damage at the cellular or genetic level.

Immune Theory

A theory that proposes aging is the result of the decline in immune function over time.

Activity Theory

A theory stating that continued activity and engagement is essential for successful aging.

Disengagement Theory

A theory that individuals naturally withdraw from social roles and relationships as they age.

Erikson's Stages of Development

A psychological theory outlining stages of psychosocial development throughout a person's lifespan.

Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE)

A cognitive assessment tool used to evaluate cognitive impairment.

Presbyopia

Age-related loss of the eye's ability to focus on nearby objects.

Glaucoma

A group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often due to high pressure in the eye.

Cataracts

A condition characterized by the clouding of the lens of the eye, leading to vision impairment.

Presbycusis

Age-related hearing loss that typically affects older adults.

Constipation

A common digestive issue in older adults, leading to infrequent or difficult bowel movements.

Nutritional-Metabolic Pattern

A pattern focusing on dietary habits and nutritional health in older adults.

Sleep-Rest Pattern

The way older adults experience sleep, often marked by less sleep and more frequent awakenings.

Alzheimer's Disease

The most common form of dementia characterized by progressive memory loss.

Dementia

A general term for cognitive decline, including memory loss and impaired understanding.

Elder Abuse

Intentional or neglectful acts by caregivers that harm vulnerable adults.

Motivation

The key to maintaining health, encompassing factors like persistence and intensity.

Chronic Illness Management

Efforts to control and treat chronic health conditions common among older adults.

CAGE Assessment

A screening tool used to identify potential alcohol abuse in individuals.

Gerotranscendence

A theory proposing that aging is a process of transcending to a deeper understanding of life.

Living Arrangements

Refers to the housing situations of older adults, including preferences for aging in place.

Psychological Changes

The emotional and mental health aspects that involve adaptation to aging and health status.

Health Promotion Activities

Activities designed to enhance the health and well-being of older adults.

Senses Changes

Age-related alterations in sensory capacities like vision, hearing, and taste.

Role Theory

A sociological theory examining how older adults adapt to their changing social roles.

Continuity Theory

A theory positing that individuals maintain their habits and preferences as they age.

Cognitive Changes

Alterations in thinking abilities and memory often observed as part of aging.

Prevention Screenings

Regular health checks to prevent or detect diseases early in older adults.

Social Isolation

A significant risk factor for mental health issues, including depression in older adults.

Lifestyle Modifications

Changes in habits to improve health outcomes, particularly for chronic illness.

Health Care Access

The ability of older adults to obtain necessary health care services.

ADLs (Activities of Daily Living)

Basic everyday tasks such as eating, bathing, and dressing elderly individuals may struggle with.

Environmental Adjustments

Changes made to living spaces to enhance safety and accessibility for older adults.

Chronic Disease

A long-lasting health condition that requires ongoing management, prevalent among older adults.

Physical Exercise

Regular activity, significant for maintaining health and mobility in older adults.

Depression in Older Adults

A common mental health condition affecting older individuals, often exacerbated by isolation.

Rehabilitation Services

Therapeutic services aimed at improving the function and quality of life for older individuals.

Ecosystem Model of Aging

An approach that considers environmental, social, and health factors impacting aging.

Sociocultural Factors

Cultural and societal influences that affect the aging experience and perceptions.

Health Literacy

The capacity to obtain, process, and understand basic health information needed to make informed decisions.

Support Systems

Social networks that provide emotional, financial, or practical help to older adults.

Visceral Sensations

The bodily sensations related to internal organs that may change with age.

Medication Management

The process of monitoring and managing medications to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Physiological Changes

Alterations in physical functions and structures as a person ages.

Adjustment to Aging

The process through which individuals come to accept aging and associated changes.

Community Support Services

Local services available to assist older adults with various aspects of living.

Health Risk Assessment

Evaluation tools to identify potential health risks in older adults.

Home Health Care

Medical or therapeutic care provided in the home, often for older adults.

Quality of Life

The general well-being of individuals, encompassing health, comfort, and social interactions.

Mental Health Evaluation

Assessment processes to evaluate psychological well-being.

Nutrition Education

Programs to provide older adults with knowledge about healthy eating.

Interpersonal Skills

The abilities to communicate and interact effectively with others.

Spiritual Needs

The ongoing quest for meaning and connection often emphasized in elder care.

Decision-Making Capacity

The ability of older adults to make informed choices about their care.

Health Care Costs

The financial aspects associated with obtaining health services, particularly for older adults.

Interdisciplinary Care Team

A group of healthcare professionals from various specialties working together for patient care.

Cognitive Stimulation

Activities that encourage mental engagement to preserve cognitive function.

Peer Interaction

Social engagement with others of the same age, vital for emotional health.

Emergency Preparedness

Planning for health emergencies, ensuring older adults have access to necessary resources.

Functional Independence

The ability of older adults to perform daily activities without assistance.

Physical Therapy

Rehabilitative health service focusing on enhancing movement and physical function.

Community Health Programs

Initiatives aimed at improving health outcomes in local populations.

Intervention Strategies

Planned activities to improve health status or manage conditions in older adults.

Transportation Access

The availability of transport options for older adults to reach medical appointments and services.

Aging Population Trends

Patterns and statistics related to the increasing age demographics within societies.

Health Disparities

Differences in health outcomes between various populations, often linked to socioeconomic factors.

Functional Health Assessment

A comprehensive evaluation of an individual's ability to perform everyday tasks.

Supportive Housing Options

Living arrangements designed to assist older adults with health and daily living needs.

Social Programs for Seniors

Government or nonprofit initiatives aimed at enhancing quality of life for older adults.

Caregiver Engagement

Involving family or staff in the care processes of older individuals for better outcomes.

Technological Adaptation

The process of older adults learning to use technology for daily living and communication.

Health Policy Framework

Guidelines and regulations governing health care delivery to older populations.

Patient Advocacy

Supporting older adults in receiving appropriate medical care and services.

Counseling Services

Mental health resources available to older adults for coping with life changes.

Financial Planning for Retirement

Strategies to manage resources effectively during retirement years.

Holistic Care Approach

A method that addresses all aspects of an older individual's well-being.

Behavioral Health

The field that focuses on mental and emotional well-being.

Safe Housing Standards

Regulations and recommendations to ensure physical safety in the living environments of older adults.

Volunteer Programs

Opportunities for older adults to engage in community service, promoting socialization and purpose.

Wellness Initiatives

Programs focused on preventive health and promoting a healthy lifestyle among older adults.

Self-Care Strategies

Practical steps taken by older individuals to maintain their health independently.

Life Satisfaction Assessment

Evaluations to determine the contentment level of older individuals with their lives.

Chronic Pain Management

Strategies to alleviate persistent pain often experienced by older adults.

End-of-Life Care Planning

Preparation for the care and decision-making processes during the final stages of life.

Community Resource Referral

The process of directing older adults to available local services and supports.

Cultural Competence in Care

The ability to understand and respond effectively to the cultural needs of older adults.

Patient Education Programs

Initiatives designed to inform older adults about health issues and promote self-management.