January 31, 2012
The University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing identified that illness, injury and death are increased in elderly populations during disaster situations. “Older adults often have visual and hearing deficits, making it more difficult to interpret their environments and precipitating increased stress” said lead author Pamela Cacchione, PhD, APRN, GNP, BC. “This stress can also exacerbate chronic illnesses, further precipitating delirium”. ...