Copy of Care of Older Adult A.Y. 2022-2023 LECTURE SLIDE

Care of Older Adult Lecture Notes

I. Concepts, Principles, and Theories

  • Perspective of Aging

    • Definition: Aging generally begins at age 60, referred to as Senior Citizens.

    • Geriatric Health Care Team: Includes gerontologists, nurse gerontologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech therapists, case managers, and nursing teams.

    • Demography of Aging: Over 700 million people aged 60+ globally, with projections of nearly 2 billion by 2050, surpassing the number of children.

    • Impacts of Aging in Families: Comprehensive impacts including emotional, financial, structural, and potential positive effects.

II. Theories of Aging

  • Biologic Theories

    • Programmed Theory: Aging is predetermined through genetic programming.

    • Endocrine Theory: Hormonal changes influence aging processes.

    • Immunological Theory: Decline in immune function leads to aging signs.

    • Membrane Theory: Aging affects cellular membranes, influencing lifespan.

  • Psychosocial Theories

    • Disengagement Theory: Mutual withdrawal between the individual and society.

    • Social Exchange Theory: Social interactions based on perceived benefits.

    • Activity Theory: Engagement in social activities is essential for satisfaction.

III. Physiologic Changes in Aging Affecting Various Systems

  • Physical Changes:

    • Vision and hearing problems, decline in smell and taste, increased illness susceptibility.

    • Leading causes of death among older adults: pneumonia, heart disease, cancer.

  • Integumentary Changes:

    • Skin becomes wrinkled, saggy, dry with age spots; hair grays and thins.

  • Musculoskeletal Changes:

    • Decrease in muscle and bone mass; bones may shrink in size and density.

  • Cardiovascular Changes:

    • Loss of elasticity in vessels and fibrotic valve changes.

    • Importance of diet, exercise, and adequate sleep for management.

  • Respiratory Changes:

    • Impaired gas exchange, decreased vital capacity, slower expiratory flow rates.

    • Management through exercise.

  • Digestive Changes:

    • Structural changes can lead to constipation; management includes fiber intake and regular exercise.

  • Neurologic Changes:

    • Minor effects on cognition; management includes mental activity and social engagement.

IV. Assessment, Planning, and Implementation

  • Assessment:

    • Components include subjective data (health history), objective data (physical assessment).

    • Tools: Psychosocial assessment, medication review, and risk assessment for violence or harm.

  • Planning:

    • Focus on health promotion and maintenance, adopting healthy habits, ensuring intellectual and social engagement.

    • Community-based services involving home care and hospice considerations.

V. Communication with Older Adults

  • Effective Communication Strategies:

    • Be aware of health issues affecting communication.

    • Speak clearly, maintain eye contact, and adjust volume as necessary.

    • Use clear, direct questions and employ visual aids when possible.

    • Be patient, take your time, and maintain a friendly demeanor.

VI. Legal and Ethical Considerations

  • Laws for Senior Citizens:

    • RA 7432 and RA 9994 outline benefits, including discounts and exemptions.

  • Ethical Principles:

    • Autonomy, justice, beneficence, and non-maleficence in care.

VII. Final Thoughts

  • Emphasize the importance of understanding aging processes, effective communication, and legal rights to provide comprehensive care for older adults.