Exam 14: Biological Aspects of Later Adulthood
What are the vestibular senses, and what changes occur as people age?
The vestibular senses are responsible for providing the brain with information about motion, equilibrium, and spatial orientation. These senses are located in the inner ear and work in conjunction with the visual and proprioceptive systems to help maintain balance and coordination.
As people age, changes in the vestibular system can occur. These changes may include a decline in the number of hair cells in the inner ear, which can affect the ability to detect motion and changes in position. This can lead to a decreased ability to maintain balance and may contribute to an increased risk of falls in older adults. Additionally, age-related changes in the vestibular system can also lead to feelings of dizziness or vertigo, as well as a decreased ability to adapt to changes in motion or position.
Overall, the aging process can have a significant impact on the vestibular senses, leading to changes in balance, coordination, and spatial orientation. It is important for older adults to be aware of these changes and to take steps to maintain their overall physical health and well-being. This may include regular exercise, maintaining a healthy diet, and seeking medical attention if they experience any concerning symptoms related to their vestibular senses.
What is Alzheimer's disease? Describe the intellectual and physical changes that occur in those afflicted.
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects the brain, leading to a decline in memory, thinking, and reasoning skills. It is the most common cause of dementia, a general term for memory loss and other cognitive abilities serious enough to interfere with daily life.
Intellectual changes in those afflicted with Alzheimer's disease include memory loss, confusion, difficulty with problem-solving and decision-making, and changes in behavior and personality. As the disease progresses, individuals may have trouble recognizing family and friends, have difficulty speaking and understanding language, and may experience disorientation and mood swings.
Physically, those with Alzheimer's disease may experience difficulty with coordination and motor functions, leading to problems with walking, swallowing, and other basic movements. As the disease advances, individuals may become increasingly frail and may require assistance with daily activities such as eating, bathing, and dressing.
Overall, Alzheimer's disease has a profound impact on both the intellectual and physical abilities of those afflicted, ultimately leading to a significant decline in overall quality of life.
Older people need to place a high priority on self-care; it's not as important for young people to worry about self-care.
False
The following is true about physiological changes experienced by older people:
Why is it important to have a positive self-concept? What are the benefits? How can you improve your self-concept?
The average life expectancy in ancient Rome and during the Middle Ages was _______ years.
When distressing events occur, it is not desirable to confront them directly to try to improve the situation.
The _____ asserts that aging results when DNA molecules are used up in cells, so that the cells gradually die.
Which of the following is true about physiological changes experienced by older people?
_____ occurs when the center of the retina gradually loses the ability to sharply distinguish fine details.
Life expectancy is expected to be shorter when one's parents and grandparents died of an illness before age ____.
When one's parents and grandparents lived to ____, it increases life expectancy.
Imagery relaxation involves switching your thinking from your daily concerns to focusing (for 10 to 15 minutes)on your ideal relaxation place.
In older people, there may be a small reduction in overall height due to a progressive thinning of the discs between the spinal vertebrae.
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