GERIATRICS
LECTURE / NCM 114
FACTORS THAT AFFECT NORMAL
FUNCTIONING OF THE OLDER ADULT
BIOLOGICAL FACTORS
GENETIC
A. HUNTINGTON’S DISEASE
• A hereditary neurodegenerative
disorder typically presents in mid-
adulthood, with more pronounced
motor and cognitive symptoms as
individuals with the genetic mutation
age.
B. FAMILIAL HYPERCHOLESTEROLEMIA
• High LDL cholesterol levels increase
the risk of cardiovascular disease,
particularly in older adults, making
their effects more critical.
C. HEREDITARY HEMOCHROMATOSIS
• Iron overload occurs when the body
absorbs too much iron from food,
leading to a buildup in organs like the
liver and heart in older adults.
• Genetic testing and counseling can
provide valuable information for
individuals and their healthcare
providers, helping to manage and plan
for potential genetic conditions as they
age.
CHRONIS ILLNESS
A. HYPERTENSION (HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE)
• High blood pressure is common among
older adults and can increase the risk of
heart disease, stroke, and kidney
problems.
B. DIABETES
• Type 2 diabetes is often diagnosed in
older age. It requires careful
management of blood sugar levels to
prevent complications such as heart
disease, neuropathy, and vision
problems.
C. ARTHRITIS
• Conditions like osteoarthritis and
rheumatoid arthritis can cause joint
pain and stiffness, making daily
activities more challenging for older
individuals.
D. HEART DISEASE
• Older adults are at a higher risk of
developing heart diseases such as
coronary artery disease, congestive
heart failure, and arrhythmias.
• Managing chronic illnesses in older adults
often involves a combination of
medication, lifestyle changes (such as diet
and exercise), regular medical check-ups,
and emotional support.
AGE-RELATED CHANGES
A. PHYSICAL CHANGES
1. Muscle Mass
• Gradual loss of muscle mass and
strength, known as sarcopenia, can
occur, leading to reduced physical
stamina and potential frailty.
2. Bone Density
• Decreased bone density increases
the risk of fractures and conditions
like osteoporosis.
3. Vision Changes
• Common changes include reduced
visual acuity, difficulty focusing on
close objects (presbyopia), and an
increased risk of eye conditions like
cataracts and macular
degeneration.
4. Hearing Loss
• Age-related hearing loss
(presbycusis) can affect the ability
to hear high-pitched sounds and
distinguish between sounds in
noisy environments.
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GERIATRICS
LECTURE / NCM 114
5. Skin Changes
• The skin becomes thinner, less
elastic, and more prone to
wrinkles, age spots, and skin
conditions.
6. Cardiovascular Changes
• Blood vessels may stiffen, and
blood pressure can increase,
increasing the risk of heart disease
B. COGNITIVE CHANGES
1. Memory
• Decline in working memory and
short-term memory
2. Processing Speed
• Processing information may take
longer, affecting reaction times.
3. Attention
• Sustaining attention on a task for
extended periods can become
more challenging.
4. Language
• Vocabulary and verbal fluency can
remain stable or even improve,
while word retrieval
processing speed may decline
slightly.
5. Executive Function
• Complex problem-solving and
multitasking abilities may decline
with age.
C. EMOTIONAL CHANGES
• Emotional regulation tends to improve
with age, with older adults
experiencing fewer intense negative
emotions and increased emotional
stability.
D. SOCIAL CHANGES
• Changes in social circles, including
retirement and the loss of friends and
family members, can impact social
interaction and support networks.
• Maintaining social engagement
remains important for cognitive and
emotional well-being.
E. SLEEP PATTERNS
• Sleep patterns may change, with older
adults often experiencing more
fragmented sleep, difficulty falling
asleep, or waking up earlier
PSYCHOLOGICAL FACTORS
A. COGNITIVE CHANGES
• Cognitive functions, such as memory,
attention, and problem-solving, can
change with age. While some cognitive
decline is normal, not all older adults
experience significant impairments.
Some may maintain their cognitive
abilities well into their later years.
B. MENTAL HEALTH
• Older adults are at risk for mental
health conditions such as depression
and anxiety. Factors like loneliness,
health issues, and the loss of loved
ones can contribute to these
and
conditions. It’s essential to recognize
and address mental health concerns in
older adults to ensure they receive the
necessary support and treatment.
C. RESILIENCE
• Many older adults exhibit remarkable
resilience and adaptability in the face
of life’s challenges. They may have
developed coping strategies over the
years, which can help them navigate
the ups and downs of aging.
D. PERSONALITY
• Personality traits tend to remain
relatively stable throughout life, but
individuals may experience shifts in
their personalities as they age. For
example, some people become more
agreeable or open to new experiences,
while others may become more
introverted.
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GERIATRICS
LECTURE / NCM 114
E. EMOTIONAL REGULATION
• Older adults often become better at
regulating their emotions and tend to
experience fewer intense negative
emotions. This emotional stability can
contribute to better mental well-being.
F. LIFE SATISFACTION
• Life satisfaction and overall well-being
can vary among older adults. Factors
such as financial security, social
connections, and a sense of purpose
can significantly influence an
individual’s sense of fulfillment in later
life.
G. COPING WITH LOSS:
• Grief and bereavement can have a
profound impact on their psychological
well-being, and the way they cope with
these losses varies from person to
person.
H. SOCIAL ENGAGEMENT
• Maintaining social connections and
engaging in social activities is crucial
for psychological well-being in older
adults. Isolation and loneliness can lead
to feelings of depression and anxiety.
I. MENTAL RESILIENCE
• Older adults may possess a level of
mental resilience gained through life
experiences, allowing them to adapt to
changing circumstances and cope with
stress more effectively.
J. SENSE OF PURPOSE
• Having a sense of purpose and
engagement in meaningful activities
can contribute to a positive outlook on
life in older age.
SOCIAL FACTORS
A. SOCIAL SUPPORT
• Social connections and support
networks are crucial for older adults.
Strong relationships with family,
friends, and communities provide
emotional support, reduce feelings of
isolation, and enhance mental well-
being.
B. LONELINESS
• Loneliness is a prevalent social issue
among older adults, especially those
who have experienced the loss of
loved ones or live alone. Chronic
loneliness can lead to depression,
anxiety, and physical health problems.
C. LIVING ARRANGEMENTS
• Housing options for older adults can
vary widely, from living independently
in their own homes to assisted living
facilities or nursing homes. The choice
of living arrangement can impact their
social interactions and access to care.
D. RETIREMENT AND LEISURE ACTIVITIES:
• How older adults spend their
retirement years can significantly
influence their social engagement and
overall happiness.
• Engaging in hobbies, volunteering, or
participating in community activities
can enhance their social lives.
E. CAREGIVING AND SUPPORT
• Many older adults may require
caregiving assistance, either from
family members or professional
caregivers. The availability of
caregiving support can impact their
independence and quality of life.
F. COMMUNITY RESOURCES
• The availability of community
resources, such as senior centers,
transportation services, and wellness
programs, can enhance social
engagement and support for older
adults.
G. INTERGENERATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS:
• Maintaining relationships with younger
generations, including grandchildren,
can provide older adults with a sense of
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GERIATRICS
LECTURE / NCM 114
purpose and connection to the wider
community.
H. CULTURAL AND ETHNIC BACKGROUND
• Cultural and ethnic factors can
influence social interactions and
support systems for older adults.
• Cultural values and traditions may
impact their preferences for caregiving
and social activities.
I. RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES
• Some older adults choose to live in
retirement communities or senior
housing, where they can socialize with
peers and access various amenities and
services.
ENVIRONEMENTAL FACTORS
A. HOUSING AND LIVING ARRANGEMENTS
• Factors such as accessibility, safety,
and comfort are crucial considerations.
• Some older adults may choose to age
in place, while others may move to
retirement communities or assisted
living facilities.
B. COMMUNITY ACCESSIBILITY
• Access to transportation, healthcare
services, grocery stores, and other
essential amenities can greatly affect
an older adult’s ability to maintain
independence and quality of life
C. SAFETY AND HOME MODIFICATIONS
• Creating a safe home environment is
essential for older adults. This may
involve installing grab bars, ramps, and
making other home modifications to
prevent falls and injuries.
D. CULTURAL AND SOCIAL OPPORTUNITIES:
• Access to cultural events, social
activities, and community
organizations can enhance the quality
of life for older adults and help them
stay engaged in their communities.
E. OUTDOOR SPACES AND RECREATION:
• Access to parks, walking trails, and
recreational facilities can promote
physical activity and social interactions
among older adults.
F. NOISE AND POLLUTION
• Exposure to excessive noise and
environmental pollution can have
negative health effects on older adults,
including increased stress levels and
sleep disturbances.
LIFESTYLE FACTORS
A. PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
• Regular exercise helps maintain
mobility, balance, and overall health. It
can reduce the risk of chronic diseases
like heart disease and diabetes.
B. NUTRITION
• A balanced diet with adequate
nutrients is essential for older adults. It
helps in maintaining healthy bones,
muscles, and cognitive function.
C. SOCIAL ENGAGEMENT
• Staying socially active can combat
feelings of isolation and depression.
Interacting with friends and family or
participating in community activities is
beneficial.
D. MENTAL STIMULATION
• Engaging in activities that challenge
the mind, such as puzzles, reading, or
learning new skills, can help maintain
cognitive function.
E. SLEEP
• Quality sleep is vital for older adults.
Establishing a regular sleep schedule
and creating a comfortable sleep
environment can improve sleep
quality.
F. STRESS MANAGEMENT
• Stress can impact overall health.
Techniques like meditation or
relaxation exercises can be beneficial.
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GERIATRICS
LECTURE / NCM 114

G. PREVENTIVE HEALTHCARE C. MEDICATION MANAGEMENT

• Regular check-ups and screenings can • Older adults often take multiple
catch health issues early. Vaccinations medications. Proper medication
and medications should be managed as management, including avoiding
prescribed. interactions and side effects, is
H. SMOKING AND ALCOHOL essential.
• Avoiding or limiting smoking and D. PREVENTIVE CARE
excessive alcohol consumption can • Vaccinations, screenings, and
significantly improve health outcomes preventive measures like flu shots and
I. SAFETY cancer screenings can help maintain
• Ensuring a safe living environment, health.
especially for those with mobility E. NUTRITION
issues, can prevent accidents and • A balanced diet tailored to their
injuries. nutritional needs is important for older
J. FINANCIAL PLANNING adults. Malnutrition and dehydration
• Managing finances and retirement are common concerns.
savings is essential for a secure future. F. PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
K. HYDRATION • Encouraging physical activity
• Older adults may be at higher risk of appropriate for their age and abilities
dehydration, so it’s crucial to drink an helps maintain mobility and overall
adequate amount of water. health.
L. MEDICATION MANAGEMENT G. MENTAL HEALTH
• Properly managing medications, • Addressing mental health issues like
including adherence to prescribed depression, anxiety, and cognitive
dosages, is critical. decline is critical. Social engagement
M. EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING and cognitive stimulation are
• Addressing mental health concerns beneficial.
and seeking support when needed is H. FALL PREVENTION
important for overall well-being • Falls are a major concern for older
adults. Strategies to prevent falls, such
HEALTHCARE FACTORS as home modifications and strength
A. REGULAR CHECK-UPS
training, are important.
• Older adults should have regular
I. ACCESS TO HEALTHCARE
medical check-ups to monitor their
• Ensuring access to healthcare services,
overall health and detect any potential
including transportation to
issues early.
appointments, is crucial for older
B. CHRONIC DISEASE MANAGEMENT
adults.
• Many older adults have chronic
J. ADVANCE CARE PLANNING
conditions like diabetes, hypertension,
• Discussions about end-of-life care
or heart disease. Proper management
preferences, like living wills and
of these conditions through
durable power of attorney, should be
medication and lifestyle changes is
encouraged.
crucial.
K.

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GERIATRICS
LECTURE / NCM 114

L. LONG-TERM CARE PLANNING

• Preparing for potential long-term care
needs, such as nursing homes or in-
home care, is important for older
adults and their families.
M. FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS
• Healthcare costs can be significant in
older age. Planning for healthcare
expenses, including insurance
coverage, is vital.
N. CULTURAL AND SOCIAL FACTORS
• Consideration of cultural and social
factors, including family support
systems, can influence healthcare
decisions.
O. PAIN MANAGEMENT
• Older adults may experience chronic
pain. Effective pain management
strategies should be discussed and
implemented.
P. DENTAL AND VISION CARE
• Dental and vision health are often
overlooked but are crucial for overall
well-being in older age.

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