Chapter 25 Older Adults (65 and Older)

Question 0

Piaget stage, formal operations in cognitive development is effected how for older adults?

Answer 0

• Many maintain cognitive function, while their is some decline in speed of cognitive function.
• Slowed neurotransmission, vascular circulation impairment, disease states, poor nutrition.

Question 1

What are some physical changes to older adults?

Answer 1

• Decease of elasticity of skin and connective tissue (dermis)
• Loss of subcutaneous fat (colder)
• Thinning and gray hair
• Thickening of finger and toe nails
• Decrease in chest wall movement, vital capacity and cilia (increase risk for respiratory problems)
• decrease production of saliva

Question 2

What are some factors that influence older adults ability to function cognitively?

Answer 2

Overall health
Number of stressors
Lifelong well-being

Question 3

Name three structural brain changes that can result in cognitive disorders.

Answer 3

Delirium
Dementia
Depression

Question 4

What is delirium?

Answer 4

Acute, temporary and usually relates to other physiologic problems. It is often first symptom of infection (UTI).

Question 5

What is dementia?

Answer 5

Chronic, progressive and possibly with an unknown cause (Alzheimer and vascular dementia)

Question 6

What does depression mean as a cognitive disorder for older adults?

Answer 6

Chronic, acute or gradual onset (present for at least 6 weeks)

Question 7

According to Erikson, what stage of psychosocial development are older adults in?

Answer 7

Integrity vs despair.

Question 8

According to Erikson, in order for older adults to reach the optimal stage of integrity what must they need to do?

Answer 8

Adjust to lifestyle changes related to retirement
Adapt to changes in family structure
Deal with multiple losses
Face and be comfortable with death

Question 9

What are some difficulties in the area of self-concept older adults are faced with?

Answer 9

Seeing oneself as an aging person
Finding ways to maintain a quality of life
Becoming more dependent on others.

Question 10

How can older adults maintain social development?

Answer 10

Find ways to remain socially active and overcome isolation

Maintain sexual health

Question 11

What are some health risks older adults encounter?

Answer 11

Cardiovascular disease
Factors affecting mobility
Mental health disorders

Question 12

Name some cardiovascular diseases that can affect older adults?

Answer 12

Coronary artery disease
Hypertension
Cerebrovascular accident

Question 13

Some factors that affect mobility are:

Answer 13

Arthritis
Osteoporosis
Falls

Question 14

Three mental health disorders that can affect older adults are:

Answer 14

Depression
Dementia
Suicide