Intro to Aging Flashcards
Week 1
What are the three classifications of aging?
Young-old (65-74)
Middle-old (75-84)
Old-old (85+).
Which segment of the aging population is growing the fastest?
The Old-old (85+).
What is the definition of Impairments?
loss of physical or physiological function at the organ level (strength, nerve conduction)
what is the definition of Disability?
impairments that disrupt typical function
rehab interventions directed at adaption/recovery
*disability ≠ loss of independence
what is the definition of Handicap?
societal/environmental limitations
(pursuit of independence limited by environmental/societal constraints
What are some examples of how a PTs nonverbal communication predicts geriatric patient outcomes?
smiling predicted improvement in mobility
shrugging associated with decrease in mobility
head shaking associated with a decrease in confusion
distancing behavior associated with negative short/long term outcomes
Difference between gerontology and geriatrics?
gerontology = study of physical, social, cognitive, and psychological aspects of aging
geriatrics = practice of care of treatment of older adults
What is the definition of Senescence?
process of deterioration over time
what is the definition of aging?
biological process of growing older over time
aging of our physiological, psychological, cognitive systems
What is the Developmental-Genetic Theory of aging?
Aging is a continuous process that operates through the same mechanisms as development and is genetically programmed.
What is the Evolutionary Senescence Theory of aging?
Aging occurs due to evolutionary trade-offs, where natural selection favors traits that enhance reproduction early in life, even if they contribute to aging later.
What is the Stress Theory of aging?
Individuals with increased longevity have greater genetic resistance to stress, and this resistance is an inherited trait.
What do Neuropsychological Theories of Aging describe?
These theories bridge biological and psychological aspects to explain brain changes
What are key brain changes described in Neuropsychological Theories of Aging?
Cognitive changes
Changes in the prefrontal cortex
Decline in declarative memory formation
Links between neuropathology and genetic predisposition
What limitation is associated with Neuropsychological Theories of Aging?
These theories do not consider evidence that neuropsychological decline can be slowed or prevented through exercise and cognitive challenges.
What do Sociological Theories of Aging focus on?
They view aging within the context in which it occurs, considering social, psychological, economic, and political influences on the aging process.
How do economic and political factors influence aging in Sociological Theories?
They shape the aging experience by influencing access to resources, healthcare, social roles, and policies that affect older adults.
What affects the aging process?
Genetics, lifestyle, disease processes, SDOH
Does chronological age = physiological age?
No, think of Dusty! She’s 100 (chronological age) but physiologically she presents much younger!
What is the primary goal of geriatric rehabilitation?
To foster independence so older adults can live personally satisfying lives and maintain meaningful social interactions
What is the difference between acute and chronic immobility?
Acute immobility: Temporary loss of mobility due to illness or trauma.
Chronic immobility: Long-term mobility loss due to untreated or longstanding health conditions.
What is the most common reason for loss of functional capabilities in older adults?
Chronic inactivity or immobility.
How does inactivity differ from the effects of aging?
Inactivity leads to functional decline, but it is not an inherent part of aging—mobility loss can often be prevented or mitigated with intervention.
What is the “Slippery Slope of Aging”?
It describes the progressive decline in physical function with aging, emphasizing the importance of reserve and resiliency in maintaining independence.
What are the different stages in the Slippery Slope of Aging?
Fun – High physical function, able to participate in desired activities.
Function – Can complete daily activities but may have limitations.
Frailty – Significant decline in physical abilities, increased risk of dependence.
Failure – Loss of independence and inability to perform basic tasks
When is the best time to intervene in the aging process?
The best time to intervene is before significant decline begins (at the Fun or early Function stage), rather than waiting until frailty or failure. (often too late at these phases)
What is adaptive homeostasis, and how does it change with age?
the body’s ability to adjust to stress and maintain function
declines with age and ability to tolerate stress decreases. also muscles lose ability to gain strength
What percentage of health is determined by zip code rather than genetics?
0.6
What is social frailty?
The risk of losing, or having lost, important resources needed to fulfill basic social needs, including social fulfillment, social resources, social behaviors, and self-management abilities
What factors contribute to social frailty?
Loss of social fulfillment
Limited social resources or restrictions
Decline in social behaviors and activities
Reduced self-management abilities
What is purposeful living?
a self-organizing life aim that stimulates goals, promotes healthy behaviors, and gives meaning to life.
What are the four negative psychological constructs related to life purpose?
Depression
Anxiety
Cynical hostility
Negative affect
What are the three positive psychological constructs related to life purpose?
Optimism
Positive affect
Social participation
