Ch 14: Older Adults Flashcards
What are the last two phases of Erickson’s psychosocial development theory?
Give age ranges.
- Generativity v. Self-absorption or Stagnation
- 40-65
- Integrity v. Despair
- ≥ 65
When referring to older adults, which age range are we referring to?
≥ 65
When performing an interview with an elderly patient, how must you start, and why?
- Begin in front of patient, at eye level speaking paced and clearly.
- This gives us a chance to observe any deficiencies that may be required to adjust interview style and methodology.
- Prevents age assumptions/bias
What is one type of infection elderly people are prone to and what may result?
- UTI
- Neurological issues may manifiest if they are unable to relieve urine
What is polypharmacy and why is it important to ask about during a patient interview?
- Multiple drugs (prescription and OTC)
- It is important to know all drugs a PT is on to be able to accurately account for possible drug interactions
Describe Delirium
- An acutely disturbed, delusional state of incoherent thought and speech.
- Usually occurs with fever, intoxication, etc.
Describe Dementia
- A chronic or persistent disorder of mental processes caused by brain disease or injury
- Marked by memory disorders, personality changes and impaired reasoning
Describe Depression
- A mental/emotional condition characterized by feelings of severe despondency and dejection
Describe the Onset of
Delirium vs. Dementia vs. Depression
- Delirium = Sudden
- Dementia = Slow
- Depression = Can be both sudden/slow
Describe how consciousness and alertness is affected by:
Delirium vs. Dementia vs. Depression
- Delirium = Reduced, Impaired, fluctuates
- Dementia = Generally normal
- Depression = Normal
Is Delirium short-term or long-term?
What is its progression?
- Short-term
- Progression is Hours to < 1mos, seldom longer
Is Dementia short-term or long-term?
What is its progression?
- Long-term
- Progression is slow, uneven, months to years
Is Depression short-term or long-term?
What is its progression?
- Tends to be short-term with daily fluctuations
- Progression is variable, but even. 6 weeks, to sometimes months to years
What are some predispositional risks for Delirium?
- History of dementia/previous episodes of delirium
- Depression
- A/V impairment
- Abnormal sodium, potassium and glucose
- Polypharmacy
What are some predispositional risks for Dementia?
- Genetics
- Smoking/Alcohol
- Cholesterol/Atherosclerosis
- Diabetes
- Mild cognitive impairment
What are some predispositional risks for Depression?
- Family history
- Chronic physical/mental disorders
- Stress
- Low socioeconomic status
- Insomnia, sleep disorders
What is presbycusis?
Presbycusis is characterized by the presence of a loss of acuity for high-frequency tones and conversational speeches due to aging
What is gynecomastia?
an enlargement or swelling of breast tissue in males. It is most commonly caused by male estrogen levels that are too high or are out of balance with testosterone levels
What is Reality orientation?
Reality orientation is a communication technique that can help restore a sense of reality, improve level of awareness, promote socialization, elevate independent functioning, and minimize confusion.
