OLD AGE PROBLEMS.pptx

Community health nursing

1. OLD AGE PROBLEMS

2. COMMON AGEING CHANGES The changes in ageing may be classified into 1 Physical changes 2 Psychological changes PHYSICAL CHANGES 1 Integumentary system *Decrease in elasticity of skin and dryness appear *Atrophy of reproductive organs in females 2 Gastro-intestinal system

3. contd * Less secretion of saliva and gastric juice * Complains of constipation Musculo-skeletal system * Height reduces * Kyphosis ,swelling in joints * Mobility decreases, if proper exercise is not done Endocrine system * Thyriod gland becomes less active * Alertness decreases * Less secretion of insulin by pancreas

4. contd Neurological system * Sensitivity become less/reaction is delayed *Changes in sleeping habits Sensory system * Eyes becomes weak * Hearing capacity decreases Immune system * Ability to prevent diseases or resistance power decreases

5. Psychological changes Personality * Due to death of life partner, decreased or end of self –dependence, loss of source of income, in capacity, etc . Memory * Decreases with increasing age Intelligence * Because of old age person neither becomes more intelligent, nor less intelligent . Sexuality * Attachment ,warmth, intimacy and emotions are more important than physical act.

6. RESPONSIBLITIES OF NURSE IN AGEING To improve the life of old people 1 Health assessment - of physical, mental, social and economic resources * Daily activities of living * Health screening –ability to see, hear, dental problems blood pressure * In laboratory tests blood examination urine analysis , cholesterol, blood sugar, thyroid etc. 2 Arrenging /promoting good nutrition

7. contd *Protected from malnutrition and deficiencies by giving balanced diet 3 Promoting activities and exercise – Stiffness of joint, arthritis, lac of energy ,low blood pressure . 4 PREVENTIVE CARE OF ELDERLY – PROTECTION FROM * Unhealthy environment and mental tensions * Physical, mental injuries, threats and fatigue. * Providing rehabilitation services. 5 Providing psychological support * The nurse should play important role in reducing loneliness, neglect, sense of uselessness or being a burden .

8. PRINCIPLES 1 CONSIDER INDIVIDUALITY Be patient, kind, sympathetic. Communicate effectively Encourage independence and encourage him to make his /her choice -s and decisions. Provide diversional /occupational therapy, share your word with the elderly. Maintain privacy Handle them gently Make them comfortable by providing comfortable bed, linen, etc keep bed dry , smooth and unwrinkled

9. Contd Encourage them to maintain body hygiene, dust regulate body temperature. Assist them to protect themselves in charming weather. Ensure adequate nutrition Encourage them to do active range of motion exercise. . Maintain body alignment and posture. Have them physically examined annually and whenever needed. Observe any physical changes which alter their body image and behaviour.

10. GERIATRIC CARE Geriatric care refers to care of elderly when he or she is not well. Geriatric is the branch of health science concerned with the study and treatment of problems and diseases associated with ageing . objectives 1 Maintenance of health function 2 Detection of disease at early stage 3Prevention of deterioration of any exiting problem.