Study Guide Question #16

Geriatrics
A. Which theory of aging states that the aging process is slowed by taking nutritional supplements?
Free Radical Theory-use of anti-oxidants (food, vitamins and minerals to reduce/slow signs of aging)


B. Be able to identify behavior that indicates patients have ineffective health maintenance
Pt states that nothing will help, won't or doesn't take meds because they "won't help"; doesn't eat because it takes too much effort; is generally non-compliant with medications and life-style changes "because they won't help".
"I am too old for it too make any difference."
"Why bother, it won't help."
ETC
Also look at Table 5-15, p. 76 for ideas about assessment.

C. What nursing diagnosis is appropriate for a person who has altered hearing or sight?
Sight
Risk for (falls, inactivity, immobility)
Nutrition less than body requirements r/t inability to make food
Poss: Body image disturbance or social isolation

Hearing
Impaired (verbal communication, balance)
Risk for social isolation
Risk for falls (if balance problems)

See Table 5-9, p. 71

D. Be able to identify changes in the client's physical assessment related to aging.
TABLE 5-4, PAGE 63
This table is 3+ pages long-read it over.

E. Identify successful vs. Unsuccessful coping mechanisms according to Erik Erikson's theory for persons in the geriatric age group.
Ego integrity vs despair

People: review past and rearrange "photo album of life". This should result in sense of wholeness, purpose and a life well lived. (ego integrity) then, can accept you life as unique and can accept death as a meaningful part of life.

However----

If the life review is laden with opportunities missed or wrong directions taken, then despair happens, death is faced with anxiety.
Each person must face adjustments and reach final conflict resolution that is a product of all the previous developmental conflict resolutions.

F. The geriatric population loves to treat their constipation. Why is this a universal problem, and what can they do about it (NOT take a pill or enema)
The #1 thing is EXERCISE!

G. What issues effect caregivers of persons who are experiencing dementia or are disabled?
Lack of support is very big, leads to STRESS, overwhelming feelings of inadequacy, powerlessness and depression. (Caregiver role strain)
Also:
1. Lack of understanding of the time and energy needed for caregiving
2. Lack of information about specific tasks (i.e. Bathing, med admin)
3. Lack of respite or relief from caregiving
4. An inability to meet personal self-care needs (socialization and rest)
5. Conflict in family about decisions related to caregiving
6. Financial depletion of resources as a result of a caregiver's inability to work and the high cost of health care.
BUT
it all boils down to LACK OF SUPPORT