Chapter 1 - The Aging Population Flashcards
What is comorbidity?
The simultaneous presence of multiple chronic conditions
Define compression of mortality.
The hypothesis that serious illness and decline can be delayed or postponed so that an extended life expectancy results in more functional, healthy years
This concept suggests that improving health care can lead to a better quality of life in later years.
What does life expectancy refer to?
The length of time that a person can be predicted to live
What is the definition of life span?
The maximum number of years that a person has the potential to live
True or False: The first significant step in improving the lives of older adults during the 20th century was the introduction of Medicare and Medicaid.
False
The first significant step was the passage of the Federal Old Age Insurance Law under the Social Security Act in 1935.
What are the age categories for older adults?
- Young-old: 60 to 74 years
- Middle-old: 75 to 84 years
- Oldest-old: 85+
What is functional age?
Physical, psychological, and social function
What does perceived age refer to?
How others estimate age based on appearance
What is age identity?
How people feel or perceive their own age
What percentage of the U.S. population currently represents persons aged 65+?
More than 16%
What is the projected percentage of older adults in the U.S. population by 2030?
20%
List the life expectancy statistics for the years 1930, 1965, and present.
- 1930: 59.7 years
- 1965: 70.2 years
- Present: 78.7 years
What is the maximum life span currently believed to be for humans?
122 years
Identify factors influencing increased life expectancy.
- Advancements in disease control and health technology
- Lower infant and child mortality rates
- Improved sanitation
- Better living conditions
What are the life expectancy statistics by race and gender for white males and females?
- White male: 76.4
- White female: 81.2
What hypothesis did James Fries advance regarding compression of morbidity?
If the onset of serious illness and decline would be delayed, people could live a long life and enjoy a healthy, functional state for most of their lives
What does ‘asset rich and cash poor’ mean in relation to older adults?
Homes are paid for, but there is not enough money available for monthly expenses
What percentage of older adults live below the poverty level?
The percentage has declined
What is the role of Medicare?
Health insurance program for older adults
What are the leading chronic conditions among older adults?
- Hypertension
- High cholesterol
- Arthritis
- Ischemic heart disease
- Diabetes
- Chronic kidney disease
- Heart failure
- Depression
- Alzheimer’s disease and dementia
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
What are the leading causes of death in older adults?
- Diseases of the heart
- Malignant neoplasms
- Chronic lower respiratory diseases
- Cerebrovascular disease
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Diabetes mellitus
- Accidents (unintentional injury)
- Influenza and pneumonia
- Nephritis, nephrotic syndrome, and nephrosis
- Parkinson’s disease
Who are the Baby Boomers?
Individuals born between 1946 and 1964
True or False: Chronic disorders most prevalent in the older adult population do not significantly impact independence and quality of life.
False
Chronic illness is a major problem for older adults, affecting ADLs, IADLs, and quality of life.
What is the significance of the year 2011 for Baby Boomers?
Beginning of Baby Boomers turning 65
