the ageing process Flashcards
Ageing
Considerable increase of older population
Expected over 1000 mil worldwide by 2020
Old age
WHO…
UK…
Ethnic groups…
WHO
- elderly = 60-74
- old = 75-89
- very old = 90+
UK - retirement age
Minority ethnic groups - younger age structure
Services available
Local community Within home - meals on wheels Shopping services Charities Post-hospital charge
Factors influencing food choice
Local food available
Economic availability
Cultural availability/habit
‘Gatekeeper’ has most control
4 issues major conern
Fluid balance + renal function Skeletal changes Physical fitness Changes in immune system ALL => anorexia of ageing
Skin
Wrinkling
Loss hair
Decreased function sweat glands
Thinner so higher water loss
Heart
Loss heart muscle
Increased fibrous tissue
Decreased cardiac output
Renal function
20-30% loss kidney weight => decreased filtration rate + increased glucose threshold
Thirst mechanism not as sensitive
Dehydration
Drowsiness Constipation Risk pressure ulcers UTIs Altered cardiac function Electrolyte disturbances
Bone
Increased resorption (tissue in bone broken down)
Osteoporosis + fractures
Decreased height due to vertebral collapse
Immune system
Impaired T-cell function
Increased susceptibility to viral infections, food posioning etc
GI effects
Diverticular disease
Decreased motor function + muscle tone => constipation
Increased taste threshold so may add more salt
Impaired digestive capacity
Dentition
Better oral health -> better diet + nutritional status
Better at home
Sugar -> tooth decay
Muscle tone + strength
Loss tension
Muscle atrophy
Activity may be limited
Hearing + vision
Sounds need to be certain volume or pitch
Diminished colour perception
Decreased visual acuity
Loss perception high freq
