Ageing

Question 1

Process of Ageing

Answer 1

• Biological – physiological / physical changes
• Chronological
• Psychological
• Social – changing roles within Society

Question 2

Geriatric cut-off

Answer 2

75 and above

Question 3

4 Aspects

Define Ageing

Answer 3

• A universal process - physiological
• Intrinsic – due to endogenous factors
• Progressive
• Deleterious – harmful

Question 4

Ageing extrinsin factors

Answer 4

• Smoking
• Diet
• UV light

Question 5

3 theories

Theories of Ageing

Answer 5

• Biological
• Social
• Psychological

Question 6

Hayflick limit

Answer 6

Telomeres shortened after each mitosis during DNA replication. Once the critical length is reached, the cell can no longer divide.

Question 7

Body composition in ageing

Answer 7

Fat proportion:
Male: 18 –> 36%
Female: 35 –> 44%
Fat becomes centrally distributed
* Sarcopenia - age related muscle loss
* Disuse atrophy
* Hormonal changes – reduction of Testosterone and Growth Hormone levels.
* Bone mass peaks age 25-30 then gradual loss
* Osteopenia and Osteoporosis

Question 8

Sepsis presentation in old people

Answer 8

• May not present with fever

Question 9

Hearing loss

Answer 9

• loss of high/low pitch
• loss of volume

Question 10

Hx taking in old people

Answer 10

• Multiple symptoms
• Multiple co-morbidities
• Polypharmacy
• Sensory impairment
• Cognitive impairment
• Social and Environmental considerations which impact upon their
  health
• Collateral information – family, friends, neighbours, carers.
• Importance of system review due to non-specific presentation.