136 Midterm Exam Study Guide PDF

136 MIDTERM EXAM STUDY GUIDE The Influence of Aging on Occupational Performance: Section 1: Overview of Aging 1. What are the age categories for older adults? o Young-old: 65-74 o Middle-old: 75-84 o Oldest-old: 85+ 2. What are some personal factors that influence agi...

136 MIDTERM EXAM STUDY GUIDE The Influence of Aging on Occupational Performance: Section 1: Overview of Aging 1. What are the age categories for older adults? o Young-old: 65-74 o Middle-old: 75-84 o Oldest-old: 85+ 2. What are some personal factors that influence aging? o Professional identity o Financial changes (income, medical expenses, food insecurity) Section 2: Environmental Factors 3. What are common living arrangements for older adults? o Aging in place o Independent living o Assisted living & memory care units o Skilled nursing facilities o Living with others or alone 4. How do changes in relationships impact aging? o Role changes o Social isolation and loneliness o Support from family, caregivers, and pets Section 3: Physical Factors of Aging 5. What are typical central nervous system changes with aging? o Decreased short-term memory o Slower processing speed o Reduced reaction time 6. What are common visual system changes with aging? o Presbyopia (difficulty seeing close objects) o Decreased tear production o Reduced sensitivity to light and changes in color perception 7. What are the main auditory system changes? o Hearing loss o Presbycusis (age-related hearing decline)  o Dual sensory impairment 8. How does the musculoskeletal system change with age? o Osteopenia/osteoporosis o Decreased muscle strength 9. How does the vestibular system change with aging? o Presbystasis (age-related balance decline) 10. What are common skin and integumentary system changes? Wrinkles, age spots, and skin thinning Increased susceptibility to heat Thinning fingernails and thickened toenails Section 4: Health Conditions in Older Adults 11. What are common chronic conditions affecting older adults? Frailty Osteoporosis Sarcopenia Low vision/hearing loss Depression 12. What are risk factors for falls in older adults? Decreased physical function Fear of falling Environmental hazards 13. What interventions can help prevent falls? STEADI program (Stopping Elderly Accidents, Deaths, and Injuries) Environmental modifications Physical activity to improve strength and balance Section 5: Cognitive Changes in Aging 14. How does attention change in older adults? Decreased ability to sustain and divide attention 15. What are typical memory changes with aging? Decline in working memory Decreased episodic/autobiographical memory 16. How does intelligence change in aging?  Crystallized intelligence remains stable or improves Fluid intelligence declines Section 6: OT Interventions for Aging Adults 17. What are common models used in occupational therapy for aging? OTPF-4 (Occupational Therapy Practice Framework) The KAWA Model MOHO (Model of Human Occupation) Model of Cognitive Disability 18. What are common OT interventions for aging adults? ADLs: Bathing, dressing, grooming, feeding, sexual activity IADLs: Pet care, financial management, meal preparation Health Management: Medication management, physical activity Work & Social Participation: Volunteer roles, adapted leisure activities 19. How can OTs support occupational engagement in older adults? Promote productive aging by maintaining function in daily tasks Adapt activities to match physical and cognitive abilities Address social isolation by encouraging community participation Aging Trends and Concepts Section 1: Key Terminology 1. What is gerontology? o The study of the aged and the aging process. 2. What is geriatrics? o A medical specialty focused on treating older adults. 3. What is a cohort? o A group of people born during a specific period who share common historical and social experiences. 4. What is ageism? o Stereotyping and discrimination based on age. 5. What is chronic illness? o A long-term health condition that cannot be cured but can be managed through medication, diet, exercise, and technology. Section 2: Stages of Aging 6. What are the three stages of aging? o Young-old (65–74 years): Recently retired, often active in volunteer work and leisure activities, may have chronic conditions. o Middle-old (75–85 years): Simplify lifestyles, rely on community support (e.g., Meals on Wheels). o Old-old (85+ years): Increased reliance on others for care, may need adult day care, home care, or nursing home placement. 7. What is the Program for All-Inclusive Care of the Elderly (PACE)? o A program designed to provide medical and support services to keep older adults in their homes. 8. Who are centenarians, and what factors contribute to their longevity? o People over 100 years old. Factors include genetics, lifestyle, environment, social connections, resiliency, and adaptability. Section 3: Health, Illness, and Chronic Conditions 9. How is health defined? o Functioning optimally without evidence of disease or abnormality. 10. What are the most common chronic illnesses in adults over 65? Hypertension, arthritis, heart disease, cancer, diabetes. 11. How does chronic illness affect minority populations? Conditions like hypertension and diabetes are more prevalent among Black older adults than White older adults. Section 4: Client-Centered Therapy 12. What is client-centered therapy in occupational therapy? A collaborative approach where OTs and OTAs work with older adults to determine therapy goals based on their personal needs and interests. 13. How does client-centered therapy benefit older adults? Increases their investment in therapy, enhances quality of life, and improves engagement in meaningful occupations. Section 5: Living Arrangements and Financial Trends 14. What are common living arrangements for older adults? Aging in place, assisted living, low-income housing, nursing homes, retirement communities. 15. What is “aging in place”? Older adults remain in their homes with modifications to improve safety and accessibility. 16. What financial challenges do older adults face regarding long-term care? Long-term care is expensive and not covered by Medicare. Medicaid covers only institutional care, and many elders rely on long-term care insurance. 17. How do economic trends affect older adults? Older women face higher poverty rates than men. Minority groups experience greater financial disparities. Social Security provides retirement income, but funding changes may impact future benefits. Section 6: Additional Aging Trends & Occupational Therapy 18. What are some key aging trends affecting OT practice? More older adults are staying in the workforce. Increased use of technology to reduce isolation and improve access to services. More grandparents taking on parenting roles. 19. How does technology impact aging adults? Reduces isolation, supports telemedicine, provides learning opportunities, and helps those with disabilities (e.g., adaptive computer programs). Section 7: Generational Cohorts & Intergenerational Concepts 20. Why is understanding generational cohorts important in OT? Different generations have unique life experiences and values that affect how they engage in therapy. 21. What are the key characteristics of Traditionalists (Silent Generation, 1928–1945)? Hard workers, respect healthcare teams, value formal communication. 22. What are the key characteristics of Baby Boomers (1946–1964)? Value teamwork, personal gratification, lifelong learning, and active engagement in occupations. Section 8: Ageism and Respectful Communication 23. What is "elderspeak," and why should it be avoided? Using condescending terms like "dear" or "sweetie" instead of addressing older adults respectfully. 24. How can OTs promote positive interactions with older adults? Addressing them by their preferred name/title. Encouraging active participation in decision-making. Avoiding a protective attitude that limits their independence. Biological and Social Theories of Aging Section 1: Key Terminology 1. What is senescence? o The natural aging process involving gradual deterioration of function. 2. What is genetic aging? o Aging determined by programmed biological factors, such as genetic coding. 3. What is nongenetic aging?  o Aging influenced by environmental and lifestyle factors rather than genetics. 4. What are programmed aging and nonprogrammed aging? o Programmed aging: Aging follows a genetic "clock" with a limited number of cell divisions. o Nonprogrammed aging: Aging results from accumulated damage and external factors. Section 2: Biological Theories of Aging 5. What are the two main categories of biological aging theories? o Genetic theories (biological programming) o Nongenetic theories (external/environmental damage) Genetic Theories 6. What is the programmed aging theory? o Suggests that organisms live for a predetermined period based on their genetic code. 7. What is the Hayflick limit? o Cells have a predetermined number of divisions before they stop replicating, contributing to aging. 8. What is the mutation theory? o Random mutations accumulate over time, altering genetic sequences and potentially leading to diseases like cancer. Nongenetic Theories 9. What is the free radical/oxidative stress theory? o Highly reactive molecules (free radicals) cause cellular damage, leading to system-wide dysfunction. 10. How does the neuroendocrine theory explain aging? The central nervous system (CNS) regulates aging, and hypothalamic dysregulation leads to increased disease susceptibility. 11. What is the wear and tear theory of aging? Suggests that body tissues and organs deteriorate over time due to daily use and accumulated damage. Section 3: Psychosocial Theories of Aging  12. What is the disengagement theory? Proposes that older adults naturally withdraw from roles, responsibilities, and social interactions. 13. What are criticisms of the disengagement theory? Assumes withdrawal is universal and inevitable, but not all individuals experience aging this way. 14. What is the activity theory of aging? Suggests that older adults need social roles and activities for life satisfaction. 15. What is the continuity theory? Proposes that older adults maintain continuity by adapting and using past experiences to navigate aging. 16. What are the two types of continuity in the continuity theory? Internal continuity: Linking past experiences with present ones. External continuity: Continuing interactions with familiar people and environments. 17. What is the life span or life course perspective? Examines developmental changes and adaptations in cognition, emotions, and behavior throughout life. 18. What is the life course theory? Considers cultural, historical, and social influences on an individual's lifespan. Section 4: Application of Aging Theories in OT 19. How does occupational therapy integrate aging theories? OT practitioners assess client needs by combining biological, social, and psychological theories into a client-centered approach. 20. What are the key OT practice considerations for older adults? Client factors: Physical, cognitive, and emotional abilities. Performance skills: The ability to complete daily activities.  Performance patterns: Established routines and habits. Context and environment: Social and physical influences on aging. Tremors Section 1: Introduction to Tremors 1. What is a tremor? o A rhythmic, oscillatory involuntary movement that affects various body parts. 2. Which body parts can tremors affect? o Hands, arms, head, face, voice, trunk, and legs (most common in hands). Section 2: Causes of Tremors 3. What are the major causes of tremors? o Problems in specific areas of the brain. o Medical conditions that affect the nervous system. o Other factors such as substance use, stress, or metabolic disorders. 4. Which medical conditions can cause tremors? o Stroke o Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) o Multiple Sclerosis (MS) o Diseases affecting the cerebellum or brainstem Section 3: Types of Tremors 5. What are the three main types of tremors? o Resting tremor o Postural tremor o Action tremor 6. What key questions help identify the type of tremor? o When is the tremor present? (At rest, during movement, or while maintaining posture?) o Which body parts are affected? Section 4: Detailed Overview of Tremor Types Resting Tremor 7. When does a resting tremor occur? o When the hands or body part are at rest. 8. Which condition is commonly associated with resting tremor? o Parkinson’s disease. 9. Which body parts are most affected by resting tremor? o Hands and fingers. Postural Tremor 10. When does a postural tremor occur? When the body is positioned against gravity (e.g., holding arms outstretched). 11. What are common causes of postural tremors? Essential tremor. Substance abuse-related tremors (e.g., alcohol withdrawal). Exaggerated physiological tremors (e.g., anxiety, stress). Action Tremor 12. When does an action tremor occur? When the affected body part is moving. 13. Which condition is commonly associated with action tremor? Cerebellar disease. Section 5: Miscellaneous Tremors 14. What are the four types of miscellaneous tremors?  Kinetic tremor Intention tremor Task-specific tremor Isometric tremor 15. How is each type of miscellaneous tremor defined? Kinetic tremor: Appears during movement of a body part. Intention tremor: Present during purposeful movement toward a target (e.g., reaching for an object). Task-specific tremor: Occurs during high-level goal-oriented tasks (e.g., writing, playing an instrument). Isometric tremor: Occurs during voluntary muscle contraction without movement (e.g., holding a heavy object). Section 6: Essential Tremor vs. Parkinsonian Tremor Essential Tremor 16. What is essential tremor? A neurological disorder causing rhythmic, involuntary shaking, often affecting the hands. 17. How does essential tremor differ from Parkinson’s tremor? Essential tremor is more noticeable during action or postural movements, while Parkinson’s tremor is more prominent at rest. 18. Which body parts are commonly affected by essential tremor? Hands, head, and voice. Parkinsonian Tremor 19. What is Parkinsonian tremor? A tremor typically associated with Parkinson’s disease, occurring at rest and often affecting one side of the body first. 20. What are common characteristics of Parkinsonian tremor?  “Pill-rolling” tremor (thumb and fingers move as if rolling a small object). Slower progression compared to essential tremor. Section 7: Occupational Therapy Considerations 21. How does occupational therapy help individuals with tremors? Adaptive strategies: Using weighted utensils, built-up handles, and stabilizing devices. Environmental modifications: Reducing fine motor demands, improving grip strength. Task modification: Encouraging larger, controlled movements instead of small, precise ones. 22. What role does empathy play in working with clients who have tremors? Understanding the physical and emotional impact of tremors. Providing support and reassurance while teaching adaptive strategies. Encouraging independence and self-confidence in daily activities. Hearing Impairments in Elders Section 1: Key Terminology 1. What is sensorineural hearing loss? o Hearing loss due to damage to sensory hair cells, auditory nerve fibers, or cochlear membranes. o Gradual and usually affects high-frequency sounds first. 2. What is conductive hearing loss? o Inability of the outer or middle ear to conduct sound properly to the inner ear. o Common causes: Earwax buildup, fluid in the middle ear. o Often treatable with cleaning, medications, or surgery. 3. What is tinnitus? o A condition where individuals experience ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds. o Can be linked to Meniere’s disease, otosclerosis, or earwax buildup. 4. What is an assistive listening device (ALD)? o A device that amplifies sound while reducing background noise, often used with microphones or headsets. 5. What is the role of an audiologist?  o A healthcare professional who evaluates, diagnoses, and treats hearing disorders. Section 2: Statistics on Hearing Loss 6. How prevalent is hearing loss among elders? o By 2050, over 52.9 million people are expected to have hearing impairment. o About one-third of individuals aged 65-74 experience hearing loss. o 85-90% of nursing home residents have some degree of hearing impairment. 7. How does hearing loss impact elders' physical health? o Associated with balance problems, ambulation difficulties, and increased fall risk. Section 3: Types and Causes of Hearing Loss Sensorineural Hearing Loss 8. What are the three types of sensorineural hearing loss? o Sensory loss: Damage to hair cells in the cochlea; causes high-frequency hearing loss. o Neural loss: Loss of auditory nerve fibers, leading to difficulty distinguishing speech sounds. o Mechanical loss: Degeneration of the cochlear membrane, making sound discrimination difficult. 9. What are common causes of sensorineural hearing loss? o Aging (presbycusis) o Prolonged exposure to loud noise (headphones, concerts) o Genetic predisposition Conductive Hearing Loss 10. What causes conductive hearing loss? Blockage of the external or middle ear due to: o Earwax (cerumen) buildup o Fluid accumulation in the middle ear 11. How is conductive hearing loss treated? Cleaning the ears Medications  Surgery (if needed) Tinnitus 12. What are the potential causes of tinnitus? Earwax buildup Cardiovascular diseases Neurological conditions Exposure to loud sounds Section 4: Psychosocial Effects of Hearing Loss 13. How does hearing loss affect an elder’s mental health? Leads to social withdrawal, loneliness, and isolation. Causes difficulty following conversations, making elders reluctant to engage in social settings. Can lead to paranoia, misunderstandings, and frustration. 14. How does hearing loss impact safety? Elders may miss alarms, doorbells, or phone calls. Increased risk of falls due to balance difficulties. Greater vulnerability to accidents or emergencies. Section 5: Signs and Symptoms of Hearing Loss 15. What are common behaviors that may indicate hearing impairment? Speaking in an inappropriately loud voice. Turning the TV or radio volume excessively high. Frequently asking for repetitions in conversation. Not responding to questions or seeming confused. Withdrawing from social interactions. Section 6: Rehabilitation and Communication Strategies  16. What are the primary goals of hearing rehabilitation? Restore functional communication. Improve social participation. Modify home and work environments for better hearing accessibility. 17. What factors affect the success of rehabilitation? Age of onset of hearing loss. Other sensory impairments (vision, mobility issues). Support from family and caregivers. Motivation and willingness to use assistive devices. 18. What role does a COTA play in working with hearing-impaired elders? Helps modify environments to improve hearing accessibility. Teaches communication strategies. Assists in training elders to use assistive listening devices (ALDs). Section 7: Environmental Modifications for Improved Hearing 19. What modifications can reduce background noise in a home or institution? Carpets, curtains, and upholstered furniture to absorb sound. Reducing open spaces that amplify sound. Minimizing background noise from TVs, music, or loud conversations. 20. What safety recommendations should be made for hearing-impaired elders? Install fire alarms with flashing lights. Use telephones with text capabilities. Ensure clear lighting to improve lip reading and visual cues. Section 8: Assistive Devices for Hearing Loss 21. What are the two primary hearing devices for elders? Hearing aids: Amplify sounds but require functioning hair cells and auditory nerves. Cochlear implants: Convert sound waves into electrical impulses to stimulate the auditory nerve.  22. What are the benefits and challenges of using hearing aids? Benefits: Improves hearing clarity, modern devices are small and discreet. Challenges: Battery costs, maintenance, background noise amplification. 23. How do assistive listening devices (ALDs) help? ALDs use a microphone, amplifier, and headset to reduce background noise and enhance speech clarity. Section 9: Strategies for Better Communication with Hearing-Impaired Elders 24. What strategies can improve communication with elders who have hearing loss? Speak slowly and distinctly with a lower-toned voice. Face the elder directly and ensure good lighting. Use visual aids like closed-captioned TVs. Avoid talking from another room or approaching from behind. Encourage self-confidence in using assistive devices. Section 10: Chapter Review Questions 25. How do age-related hearing impairments affect socialization and communication? Elders may withdraw from conversations, feel frustrated or embarrassed, and experience isolation. 26. Why might an elder prefer not to use a hearing aid? Costly batteries, discomfort, difficulty adjusting to amplified background noise. 27. How does a cochlear implant improve hearing? Replaces damaged hair cells by sending electrical signals directly to the auditory nerve. 28. How can a COTA use an ALD in a clinical setting? Reduce background noise, enhance speech clarity, and help elders adjust to amplified sound environments. Vision Impairments in Elders Section 1: Key Terminology 1. What are cataracts? o A condition where the lens becomes cloudy, preventing light from reaching the retina, leading to blurred vision and difficulty with night vision. 2. What is macular degeneration? o A leading cause of vision loss in older adults, affecting fine detail vision (e.g., reading, recognizing faces, writing). o Two types: ▪ Dry macular degeneration: Buildup of yellow deposits (drusen) under the macula. ▪ Wet macular degeneration: Growth of abnormal blood vessels that leak and cause scarring. 3. What is glaucoma? o Increased pressure in the eye due to fluid buildup, leading to optic nerve damage and peripheral vision loss. o Two types: ▪ Open-angle glaucoma (slow progression). ▪ Closed-angle glaucoma (rapid onset, emergency). 4. What is diabetic retinopathy? o A diabetes-related condition causing damage to retinal blood vessels, leading to blurry vision and potential blindness. 5. What is contrast sensitivity? o The ability to distinguish objects from their background (important for navigating stairs and reading). 6. What is strabismus? o Misalignment of the eyes, often due to neurological damage. 7. What is visual acuity? o The sharpness of vision, measured using an eye chart. Section 2: Statistics on Vision Impairment 8. How common is vision impairment among elders? o 1 in 6 adults over 65 has a visual impairment. o 1 in 4 adults over 75 has moderate to severe vision loss.  o 40%–75% of individuals with head trauma or stroke experience visual impairments. Section 3: Normal Age-Related Vision Changes 9. What are common age-related vision changes? o Loss of retinal neurons (leading to central or peripheral vision loss). o Presbyopia: Decreased elasticity in the lens, making near vision difficult. o Yellowing of the lens, affecting color differentiation. o Reduced contrast sensitivity and light-dark adaptation. 10. How do these changes affect daily function? Difficulty with reading, driving at night, recognizing faces, and detecting objects in dim light. Section 4: Common Ocular Diseases Cataracts 11. What are the symptoms of cataracts? Blurred vision, difficulty with night vision, increased glare sensitivity. 12. How are cataracts treated? Surgical lens replacement (high success rate). Macular Degeneration 13. What functional limitations are caused by macular degeneration? Loss of central vision. Difficulty with reading, recognizing faces, and fine motor tasks. 14. What are treatment options for macular degeneration? Medications (injections for wet AMD). Low-vision rehabilitation (magnifiers, contrast enhancement, adaptive strategies). Glaucoma 15. What are the early symptoms of glaucoma? Gradual loss of peripheral vision. 16. How is glaucoma treated? Eye drops to reduce eye pressure, laser therapy, or surgery. Diabetic Retinopathy 17. How does diabetic retinopathy progress? Four stages, ranging from mild to proliferative (severe bleeding and vision loss). 18. What are treatment options? Laser therapy, injections, and vitrectomy surgery. Section 5: Neurological Causes of Vision Impairment 19. Which neurological conditions can cause vision impairment? Stroke (CVA). Traumatic brain injury (TBI). Multiple sclerosis (MS). Brain tumors. 20. How do neurological conditions affect vision? Impaired eye movement, double vision (diplopia), field loss, difficulty scanning. Section 6: Visual Perception & Occupational Therapy 21. What is the hierarchy of visual perceptual skills?  Visual cognition (high-level processing for reading, problem-solving). Visual memory (retaining visual information). Pattern recognition (identifying object features like shape and color). Scanning (systematic searching of the environment). Visual attention (focusing on specific objects). Oculomotor control, visual fields, and acuity (foundational skills). 22. Why is visual scanning important? Essential for reading, driving, and locating objects in the environment. Section 7: Occupational Therapy Interventions 23. What are the general OT interventions for low vision? Refer to specialists (ophthalmologists, low-vision therapists). Use high-contrast colors (e.g., dark plates on a light table). Update eyeglasses or use magnification devices. Improve lighting (full-spectrum lighting). 24. How can OTs help elders with visual field loss? Train clients to use “eccentric viewing” (shifting gaze to the side). Improve mobility safety (reduce clutter, add contrast to steps and edges). Section 8: Environmental Modifications for Low Vision 25. What are effective environmental modifications? Reduce clutter and organize items consistently. Use contrasting colors for safety (e.g., bright tape on stairs). Ensure proper lighting in key areas. 26. How can OTs help clients with contrast sensitivity? Increase contrast in objects (e.g., black cutting boards for light-colored food). Use color filters and proper lighting. Section 9: Technology & Assistive Devices  27. What are common assistive devices for low vision? Electronic magnifiers. Screen readers (text-to-speech software). Phones with large buttons or voice commands. 28. How can technology improve safety for visually impaired elders? Smartphone apps for voice navigation. Talking clocks, motion-sensor lights, and large-print materials. Section 10: Settings for Vision Rehabilitation 29. Where do OTAs work with visually impaired elders? Geriatric rehab, inpatient and outpatient rehab, home health. Low-vision rehabilitation clinics (specialty field). 30. What professionals do OTAs collaborate with? Optometrists, ophthalmologists, low-vision specialists, rehabilitation teachers. Section 11: Chapter Review Questions 31. What are the three primary ocular conditions leading to low-vision rehab referrals? Macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma. 32. Which conditions can lead to total blindness? Severe glaucoma, advanced diabetic retinopathy. 33. What are the foundational vision abilities in the hierarchy of visual perceptual skills? Oculomotor control, visual fields, and visual acuity. 34. What environmental adaptations help elders with low vision? Increased lighting, high contrast, clutter reduction. Vision and Visual Perception Section 1: The Visual System 1. What is the function of the visual system? o The visual system allows the brain to process visual information and integrate it with other sensory inputs for occupational performance. 2. What are the key anatomical structures of the eye and their functions? o Fovea: Provides the sharpest vision. o Macula: Helps with fine-detail vision. o Retina: Converts images into signals for the brain. o Choroid: Supplies blood to the back of the eye. o Sclera: White outer layer of the eye. Section 2: The Visual Pathway 3. Which cranial nerves are involved in vision? o CN II (Optic Nerve): Transmits visual information to the brain. o CN III (Oculomotor Nerve): Moves most eye muscles, controls the pupil and eyelid elevation. o CN IV (Trochlear Nerve): Controls the superior oblique muscle. o CN VI (Abducens Nerve): Controls the lateral rectus muscle. 4. What happens when these cranial nerves are damaged? o CN III Palsy: Eye turns down and out, eyelid droops (ptosis), double vision. o CN IV Palsy: Causes vertical double vision and difficulty reading. o CN VI Palsy: The affected eye drifts toward the nose, causing double vision. Section 3: Visual Acuity and Fields 5. What is visual acuity? o Sharpness of vision, which affects the ability to read and recognize details. 6. What are visual fields? o The entire area a person can see, measuring: ▪ 65° upward, 75° downward, 95° outward, and 180° horizontally. 7. What are common visual field deficits? o Hemianopsia: Loss of half the visual field in one eye.  o Homonymous hemianopsia: Loss of the same half of the visual field in both eyes. o Quadrantopsia: Loss of one-quarter of the visual field. Section 4: Neurological Visual Deficits 8. What is the difference between visual field deficits (VFD) and inattention? o VFD: The client attempts to see but has a blind spot. o Inattention: The brain ignores one side of the environment, leading to neglect. 9. What is unilateral neglect? o A severe form of inattention where the client fails to acknowledge one side of their body or environment. 10. What interventions help with neglect and inattention? Environmental modifications: Place important items on the affected side. Visual scanning training: Encourage left-to-right scanning. Weight-bearing on the affected side to improve awareness. Section 5: Visual Perception and Processing Skills 11. What is visual perception? The ability to interpret and give meaning to visual information. 12. What are key visual processing skills? Pattern recognition: Identifying object features (shape, color, texture). Visual memory: Retaining visual details for recall. Figure-ground discrimination: Distinguishing an object from its background. Depth perception: Judging how far objects are. Section 6: Common Low Vision Conditions 13. What are the most common low-vision conditions in elders? Age-related macular degeneration (AMD): Loss of central vision, but peripheral vision is intact. Diabetic retinopathy: Blind spots due to damaged blood vessels in the retina. Glaucoma: Loss of peripheral vision due to increased eye pressure.  14. How does low vision affect daily activities? Difficulty with reading, managing finances, cooking, and mobility. Section 7: Occupational Therapy Interventions 15. What general strategies help clients with low vision? Increase contrast (e.g., dark tape on light surfaces). Improve lighting (full-spectrum bulbs, task lighting). Use tactile markers (raised dots, textured upholstery). Provide magnifiers and large-print materials. 16. What compensatory techniques help with visual field deficits? Encourage scanning techniques (left-to-right). Use finger or line guides when reading. Adjust the position of reading material to compensate for central or peripheral loss. 17. What adaptive strategies assist with reading? Use larger font sizes (16-18 pt). Switch to electronic books with text-to-speech options. Use high-contrast backgrounds. Reduce glare by reading in proper lighting. Section 8: Assistive Devices for Low Vision 18. What are common assistive devices for clients with low vision? Magnifiers: Handheld, stand, or electronic. Screen readers and text-to-speech software. Smartphones with accessibility features (voice commands, enlarged text). High-contrast or talking clocks, medication organizers. 19. What modifications help with home safety for low vision clients? Increase lighting in hallways and stairwells. Use bright-colored tape on steps and doorways. Eliminate tripping hazards (rugs, cords). Install motion sensor lights. Section 9: The Vision Treatment Team 20. Who are the key professionals involved in vision rehabilitation? Ophthalmologist: Medical doctor specializing in eye diseases. Optometrist: Evaluates vision and prescribes glasses. Certified low vision therapist (CLVT): Trains clients on using assistive devices. OT Practitioner: Focuses on compensatory strategies and adaptive equipment. Section 10: Psychological Impact of Vision Loss 21. How does vision loss affect mental health? Loss of independence can lead to depression and anxiety. Fear of falling and social isolation. 22. What role does an OTA play in addressing the emotional impact of vision loss? Providing emotional support to clients and caregivers. Referring clients to support groups or counseling. Encouraging engagement in adapted leisure activities. Section 11: Chapter Knowledge Assessment 23. A client struggles to read a magazine. The OTA draws a red line down the left side of the page. What visual skill is impaired? Visual field (Used to address hemianopsia). 24. Match the conditions to the type of vision loss: Macular degeneration → Loss of central vision. Diabetic retinopathy → Blind spots. Glaucoma → Loss of peripheral vision. Macular Degeneration (AMD): Affects the macula, leading to blurry or missing central vision while peripheral vision remains intact. Diabetic Retinopathy: Causes random blind spots (scotomas) due to damaged blood vessels in the retina, which can lead to overall blurred vision or dark areas.  Glaucoma: Results in gradual peripheral vision loss due to increased intraocular pressure damaging the optic nerve, which can eventually cause tunnel vision.