Unit 2: Part 3

Peripheral Vision in Older Adults

• Older adults often experience decreased peripheral vision.

• Challenges arise in perceiving objects not directly in front of them.

Mobility Limitations

• Mobility is essential for maintaining independence.

• Common limitations include an unsteady gait.

  • Gait: Refers to how a person walks and uses limbs.

  • Factors affecting gait:

    • Use of assistive devices (canes, walkers, wheelchairs).

    • Recent surgeries, prolonged illness, paralysis, or spinal cord injuries.

• Increased risk of falls among older adults and necessity of assessing fall risks.

Environmental Considerations

• Importance of adjusting the environment to enhance safety:

  • Turn off the television at night to reduce distractions.

  • Continuously reorient patients to help them stay grounded in reality.

  • Avoid reinforcing hallucinations; do not engage with false perceptions (e.g., imaginary animals).