Title: Identify common characteristics of older adults.
Course: Family and Human Services I (19999-I) > Section: Understanding Care for Older Adults

Identification should include

- changing physical abilities (e.g., strength and mobility)
- changing activities of daily living (ADL)
- changing support needs
- physical and mental health needs
- transfer trauma
- social issues (e.g., digital divide, isolation, hunger, transportation)
- financial concerns.

Process/Skill Questions:

Thinking

- What are the benefits of being knowledgeable about characteristics of older adults?
- How could one evaluate the social concerns of older adults?
- What are the resources available to research the needs of older adults?

Communication

- How could one address the client needs for care based on characteristics?
- What resources are available to learn about older adults?

Leadership

- Why is it important to understand care requirements for older adults?
- Why is it important to have a general knowledge of characteristics of older adults?
- Why is it helpful to know the difference between clients of specific ages?

Management

- How would a professional use information to provide care?
- What are some repercussions of over-generalizing a client’s characteristics?
- When could a client’s skills assist with staff training?