Intro E2 Ch 9 Flashcards
Older adults age
65 and over
What are older adults in reference to populations in the US what is there general name
The fastest growing population in the US in the world
Baby boomers
How are older adults living longer
Due to medical advances in the last century
What constitutes physical deterioration of older adults
Immune system Skin Hair Vision Balance
Immune system weakens
Continued wrinkling
Loss of subcutaneous tissue (wrinkling)
Graying of hair
Decline in vision and hearing
Declining balance and mobility
How do balance and mobility contribute to the quality of life of older adults
Older adults must keep moving have a healthy diet and consistent exercise
As far as safety what are older adults higher risk for and why
Higher risk for falls due to decreased balance and vision
What should the environment of older adults look like: space wise, living rooms, bathrooms and overall walking
Open spaces in living rooms
No rugs or trippable item
Safety bars in showers/ restrooms
Walkers and canes for stability
Should older people be driving
It is risky, at some point driving becomes too risky especially if dementia occurs
Driving privileges may have to be removed for safety
As far as temperature what happens because of the loss of subcutaneous tissues
Older adults get hotter and colder more easily skin becomes for delicate
What does the nutrition Of an older adult look like
Older adults need less calories because of slowed metabolism but still need a healthy balanced diet with an emphasis on hydration and adequate fiber
Why do older adults need an emphasis on hydration and adequate fiber
Because of a natural reduction in body fluids related to aging
How much sleep do older adults require and how much do they really get
Other does require 5 to 6 hours of sleep but often get 10 to 12
Who are older adult healthcare in reference to health care and what does their health care look like
Older adults are the greatest consumers of healthcare and the most expensive because of multiple illnesses
What are older adults eligible for over 65
Those over 65 with paid into Social Security or eligible for Medicare part a which is free
Medicare part a coverage
Hospital visits 80%
Medicare part B
Covers healthcare provider office visits
Medicare part D
Prescription drugs Limited
Why is older adult healthcare more expensive (what are they managing)
More expensive because of chronic illness management
What is polypharmacy how does his problems stem and what is it lead to
Polypharmacy is medication is prescribed by multiple providers without coordination or oversight by one provider
Happens because of multiple providers
May lead to drug to drug interactions and adverse effects
