Flashcards: Aging and Healthy Aging — 26 cards

What is vieillesse defined as in life phases?

A natural phase characterized by biological, psychological, and social transformations.

What does vieillesse correspond to?

Advancing age and the changes resulting from it.

What are the main characteristics of vieillesse?

Slowing vital functions, reduced abilities, increased vulnerability, and accumulated wisdom.

Is vieillesse an avoidable stage of life?

No, it is an inevitable stage involving changes and opportunities.

What types of changes does biological aging include?

Physical, sensory, cognitive, cardiovascular, bone, and immune-system changes.

What is sarcopenia in physical aging?

Loss of muscle mass.

Name two physical changes besides sarcopenia in aging.

Reduced strength and endurance, slower reflexes, and faster fatigue.

What sensory changes occur with aging?

Reduced vision, hearing loss, and weaker taste and smell perception.

What is presbycusis?

Age-related hearing loss.

What cognitive changes are typical in aging?

Slower memory, concentration difficulties, and slower learning.

Is Alzheimer's disease a normal part of aging?

No, it is a disease, not a normal aging description.

What are some other biological changes in aging?

Less efficient cardiovascular system, osteoporosis, and weakened immune system.

What psychological changes may occur during aging?

Searching for meaning, reviewing life, self-acceptance, and adapting to new life rhythms.

What do older people often need during psychological aging?

Recognition and esteem.

Is withdrawal or depression an inevitable consequence of psychological aging?

No, they are risks but not inevitable consequences.

What social changes occur related to retirement and family roles?

Retirement, changed social role, reduced social circle, and changing family place as grandparent.

What social needs might older people have?

They may need social connection and a sense of belonging.

Is social isolation inevitable during aging?

Social isolation is possible but not systematic or inevitable.

Which factors influencing aging are non-modifiable?

Age, genetics, and sex are non-modifiable factors.

What are modifiable factors influencing aging?

Lifestyle, environment, intellectual stimulation, social network, and healthcare access are modifiable factors.

What does lifestyle include as modifiable influences on aging?

Diet and physical activity are included in lifestyle.

What are the main challenges of aging?

Maintaining autonomy, preventing loss of autonomy and disease, combating isolation, adapting society, and valuing older people’s experience.

What does adapting society for aging involve?

Housing, transport, services, and accessibility.

What are the main ways to age well?

Regular physical activity, balanced diet, cognitive stimulation, social connections, medical monitoring, and meaningful activities.

On what factors does aging well depend?

Biological, psychological, social factors, personal choices, and the environment.

What is the objective of aging well?

To preserve quality of life and autonomy as long as possible.