Glossary of Elder Care Terms

The following are non-technical explanations (not definitions) of terms often used by professionals involved in care for the elderly.

For definitions of tax, legal and financial terms, see our Money Terms Glossary.

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Medical Definitions of Common Elderly Conditions

Medical Encyclopedia (Nat. Institute of Health)

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Activities of Daily Living - Activities of daily living are activities related to personal care and include bathing or showering, dressing, getting in or out of bed or a chair, using the toilet, and eating.

Assisted Living - A residential facility that provides more care than a retirement home and less than a nursing home. Residents are usually ambulatory and can feed themselves but they may need help with medications and other activities of daily living

C.N.A. - Certified Nurses Assistant

Elder - Generally someone who is over age 75

Nursing Home - A Facility that provides a hospital level of care for the elderly and disabled.

Retirement Home - Generally an apartment or residential facility that caters to those who are retired. Generally, a retirement home will provide meals and cleaning services. In most cases, the residents are self sufficient and are not confined to the facility.

R.N. - Registered Nurse