AGING DYING Terminology Aging Normal changes in bodyfunction
AGING & DYING
Terminology � Aging: Normal changes in bodyfunction that occur after sexual maturity & continue until death � Life Expectancy – avg. length of time one can expect to live (refer to text) � Gerontology- Science or study of the causes & mechanisms of aging. � Ageism- prefudiced against the elderly � Elder abuse – abuse against the elderly
More Terminology Last Will & Testament – legal document indicating who gets lawful possession of your property/belongings � Living Will – legal document indicating how you want to be treated medically if you are no longer able to make or communicate these decisions (CPR, Life Support, etc) � Healthcare Proxy – Person you designate to make decisions concerning your care if you are no longer able to make or communicate those decisions � Advocate- Someone you trust who will ensure that your wishes as indicated in your living will are actually carried out. �
AGING & DYING � Aging or Inactivity? � Is Youth a happier time? � Predictors of a Health Old Age: � Low BP, Low Blood Sugar, Having a health bodyweight, not smoking while young � If all of the above are true in middle age, chances are you will have a health old age
THEORIES OF AGING – Environment vs. Genes/Biology Genes: Identical & Fraternal twin studies show that while genes & family history are important they are not the sole indicator of aging. Scientists estimate that genes account for about 35% of the differences in lifespan. Specific Metabolic Rate (text) – support gene theory of aging. Cells cultured in a a lab grow a divide a fixed number or times/generations and then they die.
THEORIES OF AGING � Environmental Factors� Free Radicals- oxidizing substances in the body that damage cells (mitochondria) & tissues e. g. Iron when exposed to oxygen & moisture turns to rust. Free radicals are responsible for similar damage at the cellular level.
Theories of Aging � Error Catastrophe Theory� Exposure over time to free radicals & environmental agents causes aging. � Typically enzymes repair this damage to our cells but over time these enzymes become ineffective and widespread cell death results. � Calorie Restriction – weight & aging � Mice studies.
Euthanasia* � Defined: � Legal or illegal? � Arguments for � Arguments against
Palliative Care � HOSPICE
Elisabeth Kubler-Ross � Stages � Video of Dying
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