CH 8 Aging with a Brain Injury

Question 1

What is necessary for a diagnosis of dementia?

Answer 1

a functional limitation in everyday life due to the cognitive change

Question 2

What sorts of assistive technologies contribute to maintenance of independent functioning?

Question 3

Is severity of injury predictive of outcome in people who are elderly?

Answer 3

No, it is less predictive than in younger people. Predictors include pre-injury function, pre-existing medical conditions, medication use

Question 4

What are 3 causal relationships found in the Institute of Medicine (IOM) report on Consequences (2009)

Answer 4

1. penetrating TBI->unprovoked seizures
2. ” ->premature death
3. moderate or severe TBI -> unprovoked seizures

Question 5

In addition to cognitive changes, what are 2 predominant factors r/t disability 5-10 years post-injury?

Answer 5

Behavior and personality (rather than physical impairments)

Question 6

While brain injury is a chronic condition, how can individuals maximize their health and wellness in the aging process?

Answer 6

exercise, heart health, brain health, TBI advocacy, nutrition, mental health, protect brain from secondary injury, socialize, avoid drugs/alcohol, make more brain connections