Case Study Investigation
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
KEY TERMS
INTRODUCTION
2:1 MYTHS ABOUT AGING
Myth: Elderly individuals do not want to work—that is, the goal of the
What is gerontology?
Why are more elderly individuals in general good health?
FIGURE 2–2 Many individuals remain productive into their 70s and even 80s.
2:2 PHYSICAL CHANGES IN AGING
INTEGUMENTARY SYSTEM
Circulation to the skin decreases and causes coldness, dryness,
MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM
Arthritis, an inflammation of the joints, causes the joints to become
A consultation with a physician, physical therapist, or occupational
CIRCULATORY SYSTEM
RESPIRATORY SYSTEM
• Proper body alignment can also ease breathing difficulties.
NERVOUS SYSTEM
FIGURE 2–5 Individuals who remain mentally active usually show fewer mental changes.
FIGURE 2–6 Large numbers on a cell phone can help improve vision.
also more prone to the development of cataracts, where the normally
DIGESTIVE SYSTEM
URINARY SYSTEM
Many elderly individuals decrease fluid intake to cut down on
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM
As with the other body systems, changes in the endocrine system
REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM
SUMMARY
Give two specific examples of how the nervous system’s functions are affected because of structural changes affecting blood flow to the brain.
Why might elderly people be more prone to developing disease?
2:3 PSYCHOSOCIAL CHANGES IN AGING
WORK AND RETIREMENT
SOCIAL RELATIONSHIPS
LIVING ENVIRONMENTS
INDEPENDENCE
FIGURE 2–8 If the elderly person feels secure, coping becomes much easier.
DISEASE AND DISABILITY
SUMMARY
How might elderly individuals adjust to changes to social relationships?
In what way can elderly people retain their autonomy?
FIGURE 2–9 Provide supportive care and listen to sick individuals as they express their fears.
2:4 CONFUSION AND DISORIENTATION IN THE ELDERLY
CAUSES OF CONFUSION AND DISORIENTATION
Poor nutrition or lack of fluid intake can interfere with mental ability.
FIGURE 2–11 A patient with Alzheimer’s disease may forget how common objects are used and have problems with many activities of daily living.
Diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease is difficult and can only be confirmed
CARING FOR CONFUSED OR DISORIENTED INDIVIDUALS
FIGURE 2–12 Special sensors may be attached to the leg or wrist of a disoriented individual.
Speak slowly and clearly, and ask simple questions.
individual’s abilities and problems is needed to design a health
What is Alzheimer’s disease?
List five methods of reality orientation used when caring for confused patients.
2:5 MEETING THE NEEDS OF THE ELDERLY
and well-being of the elderly, as well as maintaining their security and safety,
FIGURE 2–16 Older people should have opportunities to develop through access to the educational, cultural, religious, and recreational resources of society in general.
Freedom from abuse is another important aspect of care. Abuse of the
What is Waqar?
What should a health care team member do if they see or suspect abuse of an elderly person?
Today’s Research Tomorrow’s Health Care
Case Study Investigation Conclusion
