Centenarians Characteristics of the oldest of the old:
Optimistic
Claim good memories
Have broad social contacts
Are tolerant of differences in others
Common myths about the aged:
Aging inevitably leads to disease and disability.
Fact: Most common ailments of the aged aretreatable.
Most old people live in nursing homes.
Fact: Only 4% of older adults are in institutions.
Aging is unattractive & sexuality is for theyoung.
Fact: Older adults continue relationships with theopposite sex.
Older adults are confused, rigid, forgetful.
Fact: Older adults are lifelong learners.
Developmental tasks:
Adjusting to a changing body
Adjusting to retirement
Dealing with death
Accepting self as an aging person
Maintaining productivity andenjoyment of life
Common ailments:
Vision (presbyopia, cataracts, glaucoma, maculardegeneration)
Hearing
Sleep disorders
Inappropriate drug use
Alcohol intolerance
Dehydration
Skin problems
Serious health problems:
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3 Most Common Causes of Death:
Heart disease
Cancer
Stroke
Prevention measures:
Primary
Prevent the onsetof the disease.
Secondary
Early identificationto promote cure orprogression
Examples of Prevention Measures:
Primary
Immunizations
Avoid smoking
Exercise
Routine dentals
Fall prevention
Secondary
BP screenings
Pap smears
Colonoscopies
Bone density study