N163 Final Review

Nutrition for Older Adults

• Eating Considerations

  • Understand challenges older adults face (e.g., dementia, Alzheimer’s).

  • Meals should be easier to eat, similar to children (e.g., finger foods).

  • Offer small, manageable portions instead of large plates.

• Fluid Intake

  • Older adults may have a decreased thirst response, leading to risk of dehydration.

  • Dehydration can lead to UTIs and other complications. Encourage fluid intake consistently.

  • Monitor hydration levels closely, particularly in those living alone.

• Dietary Focus

  • Emphasize low-sodium options to avoid complications in patients with renal or cardiac issues.

  • Encourage protein intake for healing and maintaining muscle mass (e.g., protein shakes like Boost).

Exercise Guidelines

• Recommended Activity

  • Aim for at least 30 minutes of low-impact exercise.

  • Activities can include swimming or walking to reduce joint strain.

Health Maintenance

• Vaccinations and Screenings

  • Important vaccines: shingles, pneumonia, COVID.

  • Regular health screenings should be part of overall health promotion.

Safety Priorities in Care

• Core Priorities

  • Top five priorities:

    1. Airway

    2. Breathing

    3. Circulation

    4. Safety

    5. Infection Prevention

  • Always assess safety factors: medication administration, living conditions, mobility aids, etc.

• Risk Factors

  • Consider environmental hazards (e.g., clutter, medications).

  • Be mindful of physical limitations (e.g., vision issues, mobility issues affecting driving).

Thermoregulation Concerns

• Hypothermia and Hyperthermia

  • Understand signs of both conditions: shivering, discoloration, increased body temperatures, dehydration, etc.

  • Ensure older clients dress appropriately for weather and stay hydrated.

Infection Awareness

• Sepsis

  • Definition and signs: elevated temperature, high heart rate, low blood pressure.

  • Consider the significance of urinary infections that may escalate to sepsis.

Cognitive Impairment Overview

• Alzheimer's vs. Dementia

  • Alzheimer's is a severe cognitive disorder; dementia is a broader category of cognitive decline.

  • Common symptoms include forgetfulness, mood changes, and confusion.

• Management Techniques

  • Redirect behavior rather than confronting delusions.

Fluid and Electrolyte Balance

• Fluid Volume Deficit and Overload

  • Understand signs: high/low heart rate, low blood pressure, dry skin, etc.

  • Recognize symptoms of fluid overload (e.g., weight gain, swelling, respiratory issues).

• Key Electrolytes

  • Importance of potassium for cardiac function; low potassium linked to kidney issues.

  • Sodium reference range: 135-145 mEq/L; potassium: 3.5-5.0 mEq/L.

Mental Health and Coping Strategies

• Emotional Support

  • Address grief or loss—encourage discussion and professional help if needed.

  • Understand the impact of stress on bodily functions and overall health.

Mobility and Activity

• Movement Importance

  • Encourage regular physical activity to prevent loss of mobility.

  • Simple exercises, resistance training, and walking impact long-term health positively.

Sleep and Quality of Life

• Sleep Needs

  • Importance of sleep for recovery and mental health.

  • Challenges in sleep quality often relate to fears or discomfort.

Sexual Health in Older Adults

• Understanding Age-Related Changes

  • Postmenopausal women may face issues like vaginal bleeding; men may experience BPH.

  • Both genders experience decreased libido but still have sexual needs.

Cultural Competence in Care

• Cultural Awareness

  • Recognize and respect cultural differences in beliefs, dietary needs, and communication preferences.

  • Be prepared to offer culturally sensitive support.