NUR 612 Porth's Pathophysiology 9th Edition Concepts of Altered Health in Older Adults Questions and Answers

Sub groups of the elderly Young old equals 65 to 74 years. Metal old equals 75 to 84 years. Old old is 85 plus years Gerontology A discipline that studies aging and the aged from biologic, psychological, and sociological perspectives. Goals of gerontology To explore the dynamic processes of complex physical changes, adjustments and psychological functioning, and alterations in social identities. To maximize functional ability and prevent or minimize illness and disability. Elderly population statistics 1. Most lived in family settings with a spouse or relative. 2. 24% live alone and only 4.5% over 65 reside in nursing homes. Older adults are the largest consumers of health care Almost half of all adult hospital beds are filled with patients 65 years of age and older Common health problems in the elderly Arthritis, hypertension, heart disease, hearing impairment, orthopedic impairments, cataracts, sinusitis, diabetes. Assets of the elderly population Poverty is common among the elderly population . 9.9% live below the poverty line. 6.1 percent were classified as near poor. 22.7 of elderly African-Americans and 20.4% of Hispanics and 8.3% of Caucasians were at the poverty level. Elderly population income 1. 90% Social Security 2. 62% income from assets. 3. 43% from pensions. 4. 21% from earnings Issues faced by the elderly Retirement, changes in lifestyle, loss of significant others, decline in physical functioning. Positive aspects of the aging process The elderly tend to be wiser, Palmer, confident, more independent , have a clear sense of priority, have greater freedom. Developmental /genetic series Changes that occur with aging are genetically programmed