Elderly Population (W12) Flashcards
What are some factors that may affect communication with the elderly population
-physical (hearing/vision loss, limited ROM)
-medical illness (anxiety, delirium/dementia, depression, substance abuse, pain)
-medication dependence/polypharmacy
Why is it important to assess a patients abilities before approaching them
To prevent assuming their response level will be
How can you respect a patient’s desire to refuse tx/transportation
Ask them to explain how they are feeling/why
What are some things you can trouble shoot when you having a hearing impaired patient
-make sure they can see your face when talking
-adjust hearing aids prn
-make sure you have their attention
How can you improve your patient care for a visually impaired person
-describe the room you are in
-tell them what you are doing
-tell them who you are addressing
-call out their name before you touch them
Non verbal forms of communication are useless here
What is aphasia
Total or partial loss of ability to use or understand words
What is the difference between expressive and receptive aphasia
Expressive: pt can understand what is said and words are on the tip of their tongue
Receptive: pt is not able to understand what is said
Keys to correctly deal with Alzheimer’s/dementia
-approach in line of vision
-speak in normal tone (low and slow)
-minimize hand movements tat approach the pt
-maintain eye contact and smile
-repeat key words if pt is not comprehending first time around
-only nod and smile if what was said was understood
What are some consequences of elderly abuse
Weaker/more vulnerable person, bones are more brittle
Name the physical signs of elderly abuse
-complains of being physically assaulted
-unexplained falls/injuries
-burns and bruises in unusual spots/unusual types
-physical restraint signs
-under-usage of medications/repeat prescription
-inadequate care/poor hygiene
-person gets medical help from variety of sources
Name the emotional/behavioural signs of elderly abuse
-fear/confusion/resignation
-helplessness/hopelessness/anxiety
-contradictory statements not from place of confusion
-avoidance of physical/eye/verbal contact with caregiver
-older person isolated by other
Name the signs of sexual abuse in elderly population
-sexual behaviour outside of the usual/relationships/personality
-unexplained changes (aggression/withdrawal/self-mutilation)
-frequent genital infections/bruises/vaginal/anal bleeding
-torn, stained or blood underclothes
Things to look for in caregivers
-exhaustion/stress
-excessively concerned/unconcerned
-blames others/pt, acts aggressively\
-does not want pt interviewed alone
-responds defensively
When are you required to report suspected elder abuse
When the older adult lives in a LTC home/retirement home
When are you (technically) not required to report suspected elder abuse
In their home
