Health Care Aide Guide

Physical functioning in late adulthood can vary greatly between any two people. This video episode discusses the realities of aging in terms of physiological changes and declines. Older adults are especially likely to stay active and happy if they accept the challenges of growing older with positive lifestyle choices. Ageism, or negative stereotypes based upon chronological age, is also discussed, as are the normative processes of primary and secondary aging. The growing specialty of gerontology is presented, and the genetics of aging and the possibility of enhancing longevity are addressed.

"This video is made up of the reflections and comments of several older residents in a long term care facility discussing giving up independence as they experience increased physical frailty."

Describes physical and biological changes that occur in the human body during the aging process. Discusses disease conditions common among elderly. Suggests medical and therapeutic intervention to natural and disease related changes.

Celebrates the benefits of developing & maintaining an active lifestyle by introducing the U of Agers, an Edmonton-based seniors gymnastics team.

Encouraging our aging adult population to work towards optimal health through physical fitness, this lively film features a group of seniors called the "U of Agers" who meet twice a week at the University of Alberta to learn and rehearse a series of gymnastics activities. The U of Agers are just "ordinary" people trying to do "extraordinary" things and confirm that if they can do gymnastics, then others in Canada have the potential to excel at whatever inspires them.

Video presents information on basic human needs, clients who are elderly and clients with arthritis, diabetes, circulatory disorders, coronary heart disease, stroke, dementia, multiple sclerosis, cancer, tuberculosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and those who are terminally ill. Also looks at newborn and infant care including assisting with breast feeding and breast care, bottle feeding, changing diaper and colicky baby.

Discusses the growing problem of elder abuse. Describes the various types of abuse and details characteristics of abusers. Barriers to getting help including social, cultural and medical factors are presented. Preventing abuse, and assessing and treating elders who have been mistreated is covered at length. Discusses various governmental agencies and services designed to help elders and their family caregivers prevent abuse before it occurs.