| Body System |
Problems |
How To Handle It |
| Cardiovascular |
heart muscle loses strength
arteries/veins get narrower, with reduced blood flow
less oxygen to body= slower healing |
Gentle, appropriate exercise
Pace activities
Elevevate legs/feet frequently |
| Digestive |
more difficulty chewing & swallowing
less taste sensation, less appetite
more frequent indigestion and constipation |
Encourage more fluids
Allow plenty of time to eat
Establish regular toileting schedule |
| Endocrine |
Decreased hormone levels
less ability to handle stress
more likely to become ill, slower to get well |
Keep surroundings clean to prevent infection
Reduce stress& avoid changes
Offer encouragement, not criticism |
| Musculoskeletal |
muscle atrophy and loss of strength
bones lose density, become more brittle
joints less flexible; loss of height |
Avoid falls to prevent fractures
Encourage range of motion exercises
Encourage as much activity as possible |
| Nervous |
Decreased brain cells
Less blood circulation to brain
forgetfulness of recent event |
Do not rush person & allow time for decisions
Avoid abrupt schedule changes
Encourage thinking, reading, & mental exercises |
| Respiration |
lungs lose strength
harder to breathe
risk of secretions accumulating in the lungs |
Encourage exercise
Encourage frequent changes of position
Encourage coughing and deep breathing exercises |
| Sensory |
reduced vision, hearing, taste and smell
Reduced sense of touch; less likely to feel pain
voice muscles lose strength |
Encourage use of glasses and hearing aids if
needed
Speak slowly and clearly & listen carefully
Encourage eating even if food does not taste good to
person |
| Skin |
skin dries, loses elasticity,tears easily
skin loses fatty layer so person feels cooler
skin bruises easily
|
keep skin clean and dry, & use lotions for
moisture
Watch for safety hazards
Prevent pressure sores by changing position frquently
|
| Urinary |
Reduced kidney function
Less bladder control. more incontinence
More frequent urination |
Encourage drinking fluids in daytime
Encourage frequent toileting
Keep person clean and dry; do not
criticize |
