RESUMEN
Medicine is a disease-oriented discipline as traditionally taught in medical schools. Geriatrics, however, calls for a more people-oriented stance. The elderly often have many special medical related problems that cannot be met by the physician alone. Working together, the physician, nurse practitioner, and occupational therapist can form an extremely effective team not only for treatment of the chronically ill elderly, but also for addressing the important area of prevention.
Asunto(s)
Geriatría , Práctica de Grupo , Grupo de Atención al Paciente , Anciano , Colorado , Humanos , Medicina PreventivaRESUMEN
A review of the literature and a study of 52 patients of the 80+ age group confirmed the premise that good health habits have a positive effect on the quantity and quality of life. Not all persons can live beyond 80, but those who do can lead a better life if they live properly. A profile of these 52 subjects aged 80 or older revealed that they were of average size or thin, and of a happy temperament; they ate well and regularly, slept adequately, avoided excessive amounts of alcohol, did not smoke, used drugs sparingly, and led an active life, physically and mentally. Also, it was apparent that the rugged elderly can withstand the impact of a major illness or a surgical operation with associated anesthesia. The following factors are important for longevity: 1) pick the right grandparents, 2) keep active physically and mentally, 3) eat properly, 4) stay thin, 5) drink alcohol moderately if at all, and 6) do not smoke.
