Health Promotion in Geriatrics

Health Promotion in Geriatrics

• Describe and discuss the nurse’s role in health promotion and disease prevention in older adults. Share an example from your personal experience as a RN.
• Name and elaborate on at least three screening/preventive procedure that must be done in older adults.
• Define and discuss three common End-of-life documents that you as nurse must be familiar with to be able to educate older adults.

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APA

Health Promotion in Geriatrics

Nurses play a critical role in promoting health and preventing disease among older adults. This population faces unique challenges such as chronic illnesses, cognitive decline, and frailty, making targeted interventions essential. Nurses assess risk factors, provide education, encourage healthy lifestyles, and coordinate care to prevent complications and enhance quality of life. They also serve as advocates, ensuring older adults have access to appropriate resources and support.

Personal Experience:
In my role as an RN, I cared for a 72-year-old patient with diabetes and hypertension. During routine visits, I focused on educating the patient about dietary modifications, the importance of physical activity, and medication adherence. I also coordinated with the primary care provider to schedule regular screenings, such as an eye exam to monitor for diabetic retinopathy and a lipid panel to manage cardiovascular risk. The patient appreciated the guidance, which improved their blood sugar control and overall well-being.

Three Screening/Preventive Procedures for Older Adults

1. Colon Cancer Screening:
   • Recommended for adults aged 50–75 through methods such as colonoscopy, stool tests (FIT or gFOBT), or sigmoidoscopy.
   • Importance: Detects colorectal cancer early when it is most treatable. After age 75, screening is individualized based on life expectancy and overall health.
2. Bone Density Testing:
   • Typically performed for women aged 65 and older or earlier for those at high risk (e.g., postmenopausal women with a family history of osteoporosis).
   • Importance: Identifies osteoporosis or low bone mass, reducing the risk of fractures through early intervention with calcium, vitamin D, and bisphosphonates.
3. Vaccinations:
   • Annual flu vaccine, pneumococcal vaccine (once after 65), and shingles vaccine (two-dose series after 50).
   • Importance: Older adults are more vulnerable to infections, and vaccines significantly reduce morbidity and mortality rates.

Three Common End-of-Life Documents

1. Advance Directive:
   • Defines a person’s wishes for medical care in case they become unable to