Geriatric
1. Monitor client for depression. Use appropriate interventions and referrals.
Anxiety often accompanies or masks depression in elderly adults.
2. Provide a protective and safe environment. Use consistent caregivers and maintain the accustomed environmental structure.
Elderly clients tend to have more perceptual impairments and adapt to changes with more difficulty than younger clients, especially during illness (Halm, Alpen, 1993).
3. Observe for adverse changes if antianxiety drugs are taken.
Age renders clients more sensitive to both the clinical and toxic effects of many agents.
4. Provide a quiet environment with diversion.
Excessive noise increases anxiety; involvement in a quiet activity can be soothing to the elderly.