Cells of the brain, spinal cord and nerves undergo changes and a reduction in number. The production of some chemicals that specialize in communication slows. The rate of transmission of directions to nerves slows. The efficiency of communication between structures is reduced

Changes in sleep patterns.

Reflex actions and response time are slower.

Poor balance may result in falls.

Shivering is less likely to occur when cold.

A higher incidence of clinical depression occurs.

Support a routine sleep schedule.

Ensure the environment is safe.

Some means of mobility aids may be needed to prevent falls.

Watch for signs of apathy, sadness and social isolation.

High or low temperatures should be reported.

Report a lack of sleep affecting daytime functioning.

Reflex actions and response times may become too slow to allow for safe driving.

Sudden and unexpected changes in or loss of motion should be reported.

Slower and less efficient directions sent to the nerves results in slower or reduced sensations.
Reduced production of tears.

Decreased ability to feel or tolerate pain.

Decreased ability to feel sensations.

An overall loss of visual acuity with a decreased ability to focus on near objects, poor night vision and sensitivity to bright light. Dry eyes.

Decreased hearing acuity, especially some frequencies.

Decreased sense of taste resulting in poorer appetite.

Losses of sensations can cause isolation.

Monitor reports of pain. Use caution with artificial heat sources such as heating pads and with hot baths.

Ensure a safe environment.

Increase lighting.
Regular eye exams.
Wear sunglasses with UV protection.

Use artificial tears.

Use services such as the CNIB for visual aids.
www.cnib.ca

The use of a hearing aide may be effective.

Unclutter the environment.

Monitor dietary intake for adequacy and encourage an adequate intake of fluids and foods.

Provide social diversions.

Sudden or unexpected changes in or loss of any sensation should be reported.

Slower cognitive function.

Reduced ability to reason through abstractions.

More time required for learning.

Increased judgment and experience.

Reduced short-term and unrehearsed memory with intact long-term memory including memory for vocabulary, emotions and motor skills.

Use memory aids and routine.

Allow more time for processing and digest smaller pieces of information at a time.

Stimulate cognitive function with puzzles, social activity, Physical activity, conversation, reading of newspapers as appropriate.

Rehearse what needs to be remembered.

Get important things in writing especially if stressed.

Investigate any noticeable change in cognition.
Provide diversions and social opportunities.