Module 4-elderly individuals At Risk Flashcards
What does Alzheimer’s affect
The brain causing cells to break down over time, eventually impacting important cognitive functions (thinking/memory)
Can affect both motor skills and behaviour depending on which area of the brain is more affected
What is Alzheimer’s disease
Form if dementia which refers to conditions of being cognitively impaired to the point where rational thinking and ability to recall information are significantly impacted.
Is Alzheimer’s curable?
No
Who is most likely to get Alzheimer’s
Older people but younger people can also get it
Some evidence say it might be hereditary
More frequently in women then men
Causes of Alzheimer’s
No certain causes have been found
What are risk factors for having Alzheimer’s
Age Genetics Poor eating habits Diabetes High blood pressure and cholesterol levels Strokes Obesity Stress Brain injury Smoking
What are the different forms of elder abuse
Physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, financial, medication related and neglect
What is elder abuse
Any action or inaction by self or others that jeopardizes the health/well being of an older adult. Includes physical, emotional, financial, sexual or medication abuse, passive or active neglect and denial of civil or human rights
Who usually carries out elder abuse?
Usually carried out by some body known to the victim, typically family members or other care givers and they usually live in the same home
What factors contribute to elder abuse
History of abuse Dependency Stress Addiction Lack of knowledge Ageism
Why do most cases of elder abuse go unreported?
Because seniors do not realize it is happening, are isolated, want to protect the abuser, feel shame for abuse happening, fear if being kicked out of home, fear of more abuse happening
What is caregiver fatigue
Exhaustion and depression associated with taking care of a loved one with a chronic health condition
What are sign of caregiver fatigue
- ongoing tendency to ignore/ postpone taking care of own health needs
- growing feeling of isolation
- feeling of anxiety, uncertainty about future
- feelings of anger at care recipient or situation often followed by guilt
- feelings of profound tiredness, exhaustion not relieved by sleep
- emotional strain/stress, manifest by varying physical symptoms
- inability to concentrate/make decisions
- bitterness towards friends/relatives who should ho more
- tendency to use alcohol/drugs to try to lessen stress levels
- depression,despair, feelings of hopelessness
If you suspect abuse look for what signs?
Caregiver asks questions only related to money and no care of client
Caregiver have any other means of support or do they depend on person they are caring for
Level of care above what the caregiver can give
What signs might a caregiver show when abuse is suspected?
Substance abuse Previous history of abusing others Anger/indifference towards elder Emotional/mental health issues Lack of compliance with medic instructions related to care of elder Inappropriate defensiveness Aggression towards elders
