Health Glossary
Home care terms, medical conditions, care procedures, and medical equipment that patients' families often encounter.
Basic daily activities such as bathing, eating, dressing, and moving around — a measure of the patient's independence.
The most common type of dementia; it is progressive and affects memory and behavior.
The patient has to lie down for long periods; requires care to prevent bedsores and maintain hygiene.
Skin wounds caused by prolonged pressure in bedridden patients; prevented by regular repositioning.
Decline in memory and thinking ability in older adults; requires companionship and a safe environment.
A disease of high blood sugar levels. Requires blood sugar control, a proper diet, and wound care if needed.
Physical therapy to restore movement and body function, e.g. after a stroke or surgery.
Death of body tissue, often in people with diabetes; requires sterile wound care.
The level of glucose in the blood; monitored in people with diabetes.
Persistently high blood pressure. Requires regular blood pressure monitoring and taking medication as prescribed.
Healthcare services provided directly at the patient's home by trained nurses/caregivers.
Delivering fluids/medication directly into a blood vessel through a needle and tube.
Inability to control urination/bowel movements; requires hygiene assistance and skin care.
A tube that drains urine from the bladder in certain patients.
Helping the patient move or change position to prevent bedsores and maintain circulation.
A tube from the nose to the stomach to deliver food/medication to patients who cannot swallow.
A device that turns liquid medicine into a mist to be inhaled, helping breathing.
Delivering liquid nutrition through a tube (e.g. NGT) for patients who cannot eat by mouth.
Providing supplemental oxygen for patients with breathing problems.
Bone loss that increases the risk of fractures in older adults.
A nerve disorder that causes tremors, muscle stiffness, and slowed movement.
The recovery period after surgery; requires wound care, medication, and monitoring at home.
A nurse/caregiver who supports seniors with daily activities, medication, and health monitoring.
A nurse who has passed document, competency, and background verification.
Sterile cleaning and changing of wound dressings to prevent infection.
A gradual recovery process so the patient becomes as independent as possible.
A disruption of brain function caused by impaired blood flow to the brain; can cause paralysis and speech problems. Requires intensive care & rehabilitation at home.
Removing mucus from the airways of patients who have difficulty clearing it.
Basic indicators of the body's condition: blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and breathing.
A measure of the pressure of blood against the vessel walls; monitored regularly in seniors & people with hypertension.
A spinning sensation or severe dizziness that increases the risk of falls.