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Dq1 aging

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Describe the characteristics of the aging process. Explain how some of the characteristics
may lead to elder abuse (memory issues, vulnerability, etc.). Discuss the types of
consideration a nurse must be mindful of while performing a health assessment on a
geriatric patient as compared to a middle-aged adult.
Aging is a gradual and natural process of change that is continuous from early middle
age. During this period, most bodily functions start declining gradually leading to physical and
cognitive impairment (Williams et al.) Some of the characteristics of the aging process are
associated with activity level, Diet, culture, genetics, and environmental exposure.
These characteristics include wrinkled skin, greying of hair, and physical decline in body
functionality. Other than the physical characteristics, there are also cardiovascular changes where
blood vessels and arteries stiffen causing the heart to pump blood harder for it to pass through
them hence increasing the risk of hypertension. And other related problems. The bones, joints,
and muscles also weaken hence becoming more prone to fractures. There are also digestive
changes leading to constipation with urinary tract and muscles weakening hence the need to
urinate more often. The memory is also affected by aging with at times having difficulties in
hearing and seeing (Hightower, 2010)
Some of the characteristics of aging may lead to elder abuse due to lack of basic skills of
taking care of themselves and staying safe. When an elderly is receiving support from a social-
care, a health service, or supported accommodation, he or she is more vulnerable to abuse. Also,
mental and physical disabilities may lead to abuse and also depending on the circumstances they
are in.

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While performing a health assessment on a geriatric patient, a nurse must be mindful and
demonstrate proficiency in care provision unlike when dealing with a middle-aged adult. The
quality of life and independence of the elderly can be enhanced and their hospitalization rate
reduced if a nurse assesses their health needs (Taylor, 2005) A nurse should consider the health
history of the patient, the integumentary changes, assessment of the skin, hair, nails and the
patient fall risks. These considerations may not be crucial while dealing with a middle-aged
patient

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Describe the characteristics of the aging process. Explain how some of the characteristics may lead to elder abuse (memory issues, vulnerability, etc.). Discuss the types of consideration a nurse must be mindful of while performing a health assessment on a geriatric patient as compared to a middle-aged adult. Aging is a gradual and natural process of change that is continuous from early middle age. During this period, most bodily functions start declining gradually leading to physical and cognitive impairment (Williams et al.) Some of the characteristics of the aging process are associated with activity level, Diet, culture, genetics, and environmental exposure. These characteristics include wrinkled skin, greying of hair, and physical decline in body functionality. Other than the physical characteristics, there are also cardiovascular changes where blood vessels and arteries stiffen cau ...
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