CSS Elder Care Fundamentals & Assessment Flashcards

Which type of elder abuse involves misuse of an older person's money or property?

Answer: Financial exploitation

Financial exploitation is the illegal or improper use of a senior's funds, property, or assets and is one of the most common forms of elder abuse.

A CSS specialist conducting a fall risk assessment should prioritize which of the following?

Answer: Evaluating medication use, gait, and home environment

Fall risk assessment must evaluate medications (especially sedatives and antihypertensives), gait and balance, vision, and environmental hazards to identify modifiable risk factors.

What is the primary goal of palliative care for seniors?

Answer: Providing relief from symptoms and improving quality of life

Palliative care focuses on relieving symptoms, managing pain, and improving quality of life for patients with serious illness, and can be provided alongside curative treatment.

Which document allows a designated individual to make healthcare decisions on behalf of a senior who lacks capacity?

Answer: Durable power of attorney for healthcare

A durable power of attorney for healthcare designates a healthcare proxy who can make medical decisions if the senior becomes incapacitated.

What does the acronym MOLST (or POLST) stand for in senior care advance planning?

Answer: Medical Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment

MOLST/POLST (Medical/Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment) translates a patient's advance care wishes into immediately actionable medical orders.

The 'teach-back' method in senior care education is used to:

Answer: Confirm a senior's understanding by having them explain information back

Teach-back asks seniors or caregivers to explain information back in their own words to confirm comprehension and identify gaps in understanding.