Chapter 8 Health Care of the Older Adult

Demographics of Aging

65 years +

Expectancy varies based on gender and race/more diverse

Leading causes of death in older adults

1. Heart diseases (coronary artery disease)

2. Cancer (Lung, colon, breast cancer)

3. Chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (bronchitis)

4. Alzheimers

Gerontologic/Geriatric Nursing

Specializes in the care of older adults

Cardiovascular Changes

Table 11-1, p196 - Age related change and health promotion strategies!!

Cardiovascular Health promotion activities

Orthostatic hypotension - rise slowly

Exercise

Low-fat, low-salt diet

Stress reduction

Weight and BP control

Take meds!

Respiratory System Changes

Subtle and gradual

Reduced maximal inspiratory and expiratory force

Lung mass decreases and residual volume increases

Smoking most significant risk factor

Respiratory System Health promotion activities

Stop smoking and avoid environmental smoke

Exercise

Adequate fluid intake

Pneumonia/Flu vaccines yearly

Hospitalized pts - Cough and take deep breaths

Integumentary System Changes

Epidural proliferation decreases, dermis becomes thinner

Elastic fibers are reduced, collagen becomes stiffer

Subcutaneous fat diminishes - can’t conserve body heat

Loss of resiliency

Balding

Integumentary Health Promotion Activities

Not smoking

Avoiding sun exposure

Skin cream

Avoid hot baths

Optimal nutrition and hydration

Skin exams

Reproductive System Changes

Active sex lives

Males: erectile dysfunction

Females: Vaginal narrowing, decreased elasticity

Reproductive promotion activities

Many options to improve sexual relationships

Communication requires sensitivity

Genitourinary System Changes

Decreased filtration rat

Slower restoration of acid-base balance in response to stress

Males - benign prostatic hyperplasia

Females - Urge incontinence

Genitourinary System Health Promotion Activities

Encourage adequate consumption of fluids

Refer to urologist

Gastrointestinal System Changes

Decreased sense of thirst, smell ,taste

Decreased absorption

Dysphagia

Constipation

Gastrointestinal Health promotion Activities

Good dental habits

Sufficient fluid intake

Small frequent meals

Musculoskeletal System changes

Mobility affected

Bone mass starts to decrease at age 40

Osteoporosis

Musculoskeletal Health promotion Activities

Use it or lose it

Early PT

Nervous System Changes

Decreased nerve cells

Reduced speed in nerve conduction

Changes in gait/balance

Mental function threatened

Nervous System Health Promotion Activities

Encourage adequate nutrition, intake of vitamin B12

Sensory Changes

Loss vs. deprivation

Vision diminished

Macular degeneration

Hearing

Sensory Health Promotion Activities

Eye exams

Polypharmacy

Administration of multiple medications at the same time; common in older persons with several chronic illnesses

What is an age related change in the body system of older adults?

Decreased cardiac output

Is the following statement true or false?

The leading cause of injury and preventable source of mortality and morbidity in older adults is falls

True. The leading cause of injury and preventable source of mortality and morbidity in older adults is falls

Is the following statement true or false?

The most common affective or mood disorder of old age is Alzheimer's disease.

False. The most common affective or mood disorder of old age is depression