Age Related Changes Flashcards
Gerontology vs Geriatrics
Gerontology : the study of aging
Geriatrics: medical trx of aging people
Theories of Aging:
- progressive decline model
- biological time clock
- free radical theory
- cross-linkage theory
- immune theory
- error catastrophe theory
progressive decline model
wear and tear
biological time clock
finite # of cell replications
free radical theory
O2 radicals contribute to pathophysiological changes
cross-linkage theory
chemical reactions cause irreparable damage to DNA
immune theory
breakdown in immune system leads to greater risk of disease and cancer
error catastrophe theory
errors in cellular RNA trancription lead to fault structures, especially proteins
Aging
interaction among genetics, environmental influences, lifestyles, and effects of disease process
What components are included in the shift in clinical focus for PT
- conditions traditionally associated w/aging
- sports and leisure related injuries
- focus on health, fitness, and wellness
Geriatric Rehab
assisting disabled older adult achieve optimal functional capcities in order to attain meaninful QOL in satisfying environment
In geriatric rehab, functional capacities includes:
physical, psychological, and social
Geriatric Rehab requires…
an interdisciplinary approach
Components of collaboration w/PTA in geriatric rehab
- medically complex patients
- PTA will assist in implementing trx programs
- PTA reporting to PT on responses
- Corresponding w/PT in collaborative manner to determine changes necessary to trx approach based on status
- Supervision of PTA in hospital vs home
Collaboration w/ OT and ST
coordinate care to address all aspects of rehab needs
Collaboration w/Nursing
coordinate care and exchange critical patient info
Collaboration w/Physician and PA
coordinate care and exchange critical patient info
Collaboration w/the family
- obtain essential info on patient’s PLOF and d/c options
- caregiver involvement in patient care
79% of people 70 and older have 1 or more of 7 chronic conditions:
- arthritis
- high BP
- diabetes
- lung disease
- stroke
- cancer
7.
T/F: 65 and older, 30% have 3 or more chronic conditions making them a medically complex patient
True
dementia adds to the complexity
Principles of Geriatric Rehab
- variability of capabilities
- inactivity / sedentary lifestyle
- optimum health and optimum functional ability
variability of capabilites
physical, cog, and motivation vary greatly
inactivity / sedentary lifestyle
inactive lifestyle contributes to debility
optimum health and overall well being
related to optimum functional ability
Geriatric Rehab directed toward:
- stabilizing primary problems
- preventing secondary complications
- restoring lost function
Geri Rehab Prep
- quiet and well lit exam area
- WC accessibility
- Adjustable trx table
Geri rehab tools
consider patient’s cog status when choosing assessment tools
Geri Rehab Timing
time of day may impact physical/cog status
Geri Rehab: Evaluation considerations
- endurance may be limited (physical and mental)
- determine cog status immediately to guide direction of interview questions and physical exam
- use appropriate p! scales
- understand difference between depression and dementia
- keep function at forefront of clinical assessment/decisions