PSY313 UNIT 2 LECTURE 1 Flashcards
What is the World Health Organization’s (WHO) definition of health?
Health is defined as the state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being.
What are the criticisms of the WHO’s definition of health?
It’s considered too broad, as almost everyone would be seen as unhealthy most of the time.
Can you still be considered healthy if you have some minor health issues?
Yes, you can be in a ‘relatively good health’ state if only minor issues are affecting you.
What is a more practical way to think about health, according to the Ottawa Charter?
Health is seen as a resource that helps you live well, focusing on social and personal resources.
What does ‘self-rated health’ mean and why is it useful?
It’s how people rate their own health, reflecting personal and broader health trends.
How does aging affect self-rated health in Canada?
As people get older, their self-rated health usually declines due to more chronic illnesses.
How could having a negative view of your health affect you?
It may prevent you from taking actions to improve your health, worsening your condition.
What is illness?
Illness refers to any physical or mental impairment that affects your well-being.
What’s the difference between acute and chronic diseases in older adults?
Acute diseases become less common but more severe with age, while chronic diseases become more frequent.
Are older adults more likely to get sick than younger people?
Yes, older adults have more chronic illnesses but fewer acute illnesses, which are often more severe.
What are some common risk factors for chronic diseases?
Chronic diseases are linked to modifiable risk factors like smoking, poor diet, and lack of exercise.
What risk factors for illness can’t be controlled?
Social and economic factors, such as low income and education levels, often lead to poorer health.
Why is social support crucial for older adults’ health?
It provides practical help, cognitive benefits, and prevents loneliness, which is harmful to health.
What health care challenges do older adults face?
They often struggle with access due to mobility issues, transportation problems, and ageism.
How does growing up in poverty affect health later in life?
Those who grew up in poverty face greater health risks later in life, despite improved economic status.
Why is cancer a major concern for older adults?
Cancer is the most common chronic illness and the leading cause of death among older adults in Canada.
How do genetics play a role in cancer?
All cancers involve genetic mutations, some inherited, affecting cancer development.
What environmental factors contribute to cancer?
Environmental toxins and exposure to harmful substances like sunlight and tobacco smoke increase risk.
How preventable is skin cancer?
Most skin cancer cases are preventable through sun protection.
What is the risk associated with using tanning beds before age 30?
Women who use tanning beds before age 30 increase their risk of developing skin cancer by 75%.
What are the main causes of lung cancer?
Nearly all cases are linked to cigarette smoking, including secondhand smoke.
How does diet affect colorectal cancer rates?
Death rates are 55% higher among those with the highest BMIs compared to those with healthy BMIs.
What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic illness where the body loses its ability to metabolize glucose effectively.
What characterizes Type 2 Diabetes?
It’s prevalent in adults, especially those over 65, affecting 25% of this age group in Canada.
