Wilson: Health Assessment for Nursing Practice, 5th Edition

Chapter 21: Assessment of the Older Adult

Key Points

Aging is not a disease, but the health conditions associated with getting older increase with advancing age. Nurses must understand the difference between aging and disease and not make assumptions that manifestations of disease are related to age alone.

Gradual changes in body systems are expected as individuals grow older. Nurses should know and understand how these changes affect physiologic functioning.

The general health history of the older adult includes all medications the patient is taking.Older adults may have medications prescribed by varying providers and may be taking over-the-counter medications or supplements.

The older adult should be asked about access to medications in relation to financial or transportation issues.

An assessment of the family and social relationships of the older adult includes asking about current living arrangements.

The functional assessment of the older adult focuses on the ability to perform self-care activities or activities of daily living. This includes shopping; preparing meals; and handling medications, finances, and travel.

Depression is not an expected finding in older adults. The mental health assessment includes information about the coping abilities of the patient when dealing with stressors.

The older adult should be assessed for alcohol use. Excessive drinking can contribute to falls, accidents, and depression, and can contribute to complications related to chronic illnesses.

The environment of the older adult is assessed to determine if there are hazards in the home or neighborhood that can alter safety or comfort.

The physical examination of the older adult is not different from that of the younger adultpatient.

Common problems and conditions of the older adult may include macular degeneration, anemia, constipation, and urinary incontinence.

Copyright 2013 by Mosby, an imprint of Elsevier Inc.