Teaching the geriatric patient. Making the most of "cognitive resources" and "gains".
Educating the older adult about healthcare information can be a challenge because of the cognitive decline that accompanies the aging process. This article focuses on the cognitive "resources" that have been linked to declines in cognition: sensory input, processing speed, working memory, and inhibition. Although much attention is focused on the cognitive losses that occur with aging, there are also "gains" such as wisdom that assist the older adult in learning healthcare information. The nurse's understanding of "resources" and "gains" will assist her in choosing effective teaching strategies to use with older individuals.
Acute Rehabilitation Unit, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA.
Carolyn Crane
CC
Cutilli
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000375:Aging / Q000502:physiology / Q000523:psychology; D019644:Arthroplasty, Replacement, Hip / Q000193:education / Q000451:nursing / Q000523:psychology; D001288:Attention / Q000502:physiology; D003071:Cognition / Q000502:physiology; D005260:Female; D015577:Geriatric Assessment; D005851:Geriatric Nursing / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D008568:Memory / Q000502:physiology; D008606:Mental Processes / Q000502:physiology; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D010353:Patient Education as Topic / Q000458:organization & administration*; D012677:Sensation / Q000502:physiology