learning Objectives - Describe the nurse’s role in promoting wellness for elderly. Demonstrate skill in providing nursing care for elderly clients.
Hours - 6
Teaching and Learning Activities - Lecture cum discussion Visit to old age home Videos
Assessment Methods - Short answer Objective type
Content of the chapter
Nursing management of the elderly
a) Assessment of the elderly
- Ageing process
- Helping and care of elderly in promoting
wellness and self care
b) Conditions associated with ageing
- Dementia
- Osteoporosis
- Incontinence – urinary
- Sensory deprivation
c) Home and Institutional careNursing Management of the Elderly
Caring for the elderly focuses on promoting wellness, maintaining independence, preventing complications, and providing holistic support.
a) Assessment of the Elderly
1. Ageing Process
- Physiological changes:
- Cardiovascular: reduced cardiac output, decreased elasticity of blood vessels
- Respiratory: decreased lung capacity, weaker cough reflex
- Musculoskeletal: loss of muscle mass, joint stiffness
- Nervous system: slower reflexes, memory decline
- Sensory: impaired vision, hearing, taste, smell
- Skin: thinning, dryness, wrinkles, delayed wound healing
- Psychological changes:
- Decreased adaptability, risk of depression, anxiety
- Social isolation due to retirement, loss of spouse/friends
2. Helping and Care in Promoting Wellness and Self-Care
- Encourage independence in ADLs (bathing, dressing, feeding)
- Balanced diet and adequate hydration
- Regular exercise and mobility programs
- Cognitive stimulation: reading, puzzles, social interaction
- Medication management and adherence
- Regular health check-ups
- Emotional support and companionship
b) Conditions Associated with Ageing
1. Dementia
- Progressive cognitive decline
- Nursing care:
- Safe environment
- Orientation aids (clocks, calendars)
- Assistance with ADLs
- Support for family caregivers
2. Osteoporosis
- Fragile bones, high fracture risk
- Nursing care:
- Fall prevention strategies
- Weight-bearing exercises
- Calcium and vitamin D supplementation
- Educate on posture and mobility
3. Urinary Incontinence
- Involuntary urine loss
- Nursing care:
- Bladder training and scheduled toileting
- Use of absorbent products
- Skin care to prevent excoriation
- Encourage adequate fluid intake
4. Sensory Deprivation
- Impaired vision, hearing, taste, or smell
- Nursing care:
- Provide assistive devices (glasses, hearing aids)
- Adequate lighting and safety measures
- Stimulating activities: music, conversation, tactile stimulation
- Encourage social interaction
c) Home and Institutional Care
Home Care
- Family education and support
- Assistance with ADLs
- Safe home environment (handrails, nonslip mats)
- Nutritional support
- Medication management and monitoring
- Regular monitoring of chronic illnesses
Institutional Care
- Geriatric wards, nursing homes
- Multidisciplinary approach: nurses, physiotherapists, doctors, social workers
- Structured daily routine
- Recreational and cognitive activities
- Regular assessment of physical and mental health
- End-of-life care and emotional support
Conclusion
Nursing management of the elderly emphasizes holistic care, maintaining independence, preventing complications, and promoting physical, mental, and social well-being. Early assessment and supportive interventions improve quality of life and functional ability.