1. Geriatric Care Basic Health Care; HCE 100

2. Myths on Aging Gerontology = study of the aging Myth: most elderly in institutions Myth: over age 65 means your old Myth: most elderly incompetent Myth: most elderly live in poverty Myth: most elderly unhappy/ lonely Myth: most retired people are bored Myth: most retired do not want to work

3. Physical changes with aging Skin Elastic tissue loses elasticity Old age spots = senile lentigines = “liver spots” Fatty layer decreases ---- easily traumatized Musculoskeletal Osteoporosis Osteoarthritis Lose sense of balance at times ---- they fall frequently Fine finger movements difficult Circulatory Arteriosclerosis At rest, most OK; notice changes with activity Prevent thrombi; thus must do some exercise Respiratory Less elasticity in lungs More susceptible to respiratory infections

4. Nervous Blood flow to brain decreases Senses diminish –Eyes: glaucoma & cataracts –Ears : talk to person slowly & face to face Short term memory loss = first to go Digestive Dysphagia --- since decrease saliva & decreased gag reflex Taste decreases Digestion much slower More gas & constipation since decreased peristalsis Urinary Nocturia Incontinence Reproductive Sexual desire & need do not necessarily decrease Male response much slower

5. Mental changes (psychosocial) with aging Work & retirement Feel worthless & useless, thus some get depression Social relationships Get continual loss of friends & relatives Living environments Assisted living & long term care facilities Independence Important to maintain it; assistance as needed Disease & disability May lead to depression Key: Keep a positive mental outlook

6. Processing Information Confusion & disorientation transiently common –Causes: Arteriosclerosis Atherosclerosis --- clots (thrombi & emboli), TIA Dementia Persistent disorientation & confusion Alzheimer’s disease Reality orientation = activities that help promote awareness of person, time, & place Aphasia Means without speech 2 key types –Expressive aphasia = “Broca’s” area –Receptive aphasia = “Wernicke's” area –“global” aphasia = both of the above

7. Caring for the Elderly Freedom from abuse Ombudsman = go-between agent Investigates complaints & mediates settlements between parties Maintain respect & dignity