老年医学常见英语术语

老年医学常见英语术语
Common Medical Terms in Geriatrics.
Geriatrics, the branch of medicine dealing with the care of elderly individuals, has a rich vocabulary of terms related to the health conditions and diseases commonly seen in older adults. This article aims to provide an overview of some common medical terms used in geriatrics, with a focus on the terminology related to the aging process, common health issues, and their management.
1. Aging Process:
Aging: The progressive and irreversible changes that occur in an organism over time, leading to a decline in physiological functions and increased vulnerability to disease.
Senescence: The natural process of aging, characterized by the gradual deterioration of bodily
functions.
Biological Age: The age estimated based on physiological and biochemical markers, which may differ from chronological age.
Chronological Age: The age determined by the number of years elapsed since birth.
2. Geriatric Assessment:
Geriatric Assessment: A comprehensive evaluation of an older adult's physical, mental, and social health, with a focus on identifying and managing age-related problems.
Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA): A multifaceted process that involves a thorough assessment of an older adult's health status, including medical history, physical examination, cognitive and functional abilities, and social support systems.
3. Common Geriatric Conditions:
Dementia: A general term for a set of symptoms that affect memory, thinking, and behavior severely enough to interfere with daily life.
Alzheimer's Disease: A progressive neurodegenerative disease that is the most common cause of dementia.
Falls: Unexpected or inadvertent changes in position resulting in coming to rest on the ground, floor, or other lower level. Falls are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality among older adults.
Frailty: A medical syndrome associated with decreased reserve and resistance to stressors, leading to
vulnerability to adverse outcomes.
Sarcopenia: Age-related loss of muscle mass and strength.
Osteoporosis: A condition characterized by low bone mass and microarchitectural deterioration of bone tissue,
leading to increased bone fragility and a higher risk of falls and fractures.
4. Geriatric Syndromes:
Incontinence: Loss of bladder or bowel control.
Delirium: A temporary confusion or disturbed state of consciousness that often occurs in response to an acute medical condition or medication.
Polypharmacy: The use of multiple medications by a patient, which can increase the risk of drug interactions and adverse effects.
5. Geriatric Therapeutics:
Pharmacotherapy: The use of drugs in the treatment of disease or symptoms. In geriatrics, special considerations must be given to drug-drug interactions, side effects, and compliance.
Non-pharmacological Therapies: Therapeutic approaches that do not involve the use of drugs, such as physical therapy, cognitive training, and behavioral interventions.
6. Geriatric Care Settings:
Acute Care: Care provided in hospitals or emergency departments for short-term, severe illnesses or injuries.
Primary Care:Ongoing care provided by a healthcare provider who serves as the first point of contact for most health problems and coordinates care with other providers.
Long-Term Care: Care provided to individuals with chronic conditions or disabilities who require assistance with daily activities over an extended period. This may include nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home care.
In conclusion, geriatrics is a vast field with a rich vocabulary of terms related to the aging process, common health issues, and their management. Understanding these
terms is crucial for healthcare providers working with older adults to ensure effective communication, accurate diagnosis, and appropriate treatment.。