older adult

phsyical development

• Skin thinning, dryness, graying hair, reduced temperature tolerance

• Reduced cardiac output, lung capacity, muscle strength, and bone density

• Slower reaction time; declining vision, hearing, taste, and smell

• Reduced intestinal motility and bladder capacity

older adult cognitive and psychosocial

• Cognition often remains intact, but processing speed may slow

• Distinguish delirium (acute) from dementia (progressive) and depression

• Erikson: integrity vs. despair

• Adaptation to retirement, losses, changing roles, and dependence

• Promote social connection, autonomy, and quality of life

older adult health promotion

• Monitor cardiovascular, metabolic, mobility, and mental health risks

• Age-appropriate immunizations and individualized screening

• Nutrition: adequate calcium, vitamin D, B12, fiber, and hydration

• Address barriers to eating: isolation, finances, dentition, mobility

• Encourage activity and appropriate assistive devices

older adult injury prevention

• Prevent falls: remove rugs/clutter, install grab bars, improve lighting

• Assess mobility aids, hearing aids, and eyeglasses

• Review medication safety and potential adverse effects

• Encourage safe driving and substance-use prevention

• Install smoke/CO detectors and secure firearms