🧠 Module Unit: Nervous System Changes in the Elderly

For Social Service Designees & Activities Directors in Kansas Long-Term Care

Overview

As individuals age, the nervous system undergoes changes that affect memory, coordination, mood, and responsiveness. These changes can influence how residents interact socially, participate in activities, and engage with caregivers. For Social Service Designees (SSDs) and Activities Directors (ADs), understanding these changes is critical to providing person-centered and effective care.

Common Age-Related Nervous System Changes

Nervous System Component	Common Changes in Elderly	Impact on Daily Functioning
Brain (Cerebral Cortex)	Shrinkage in certain brain regions, especially the frontal lobe and hippocampus	Slower processing, mild memory lapses
Neurotransmitters	Decreased dopamine, serotonin, and acetylcholine levels	Mood changes, slower reflexes, risk of depression
Spinal Cord/Nerve Conduction	Slower signal transmission	Delayed responses, increased fall risk
Autonomic Nervous System	Decreased regulation of blood pressure and temperature	Dizziness, fainting, intolerance to heat/cold

Key Conditions Related to Nervous System Aging

Condition	Symptoms	SSD/AD Responsibilities
Dementia (e.g., Alzheimer’s)	Memory loss, confusion, personality changes	Ensure routines, reduce overstimulation, advocate for person-centered planning
Parkinson’s Disease	Tremors, stiffness, slowed movement	Modify activities, provide seated options, allow frequent breaks
Stroke Aftereffects	Paralysis, speech difficulty, confusion	Use communication aids, support peer interaction, offer reassurance
Peripheral Neuropathy	Numbness, pain, unsteady gait	Report complaints, prevent falls, adapt activities for balance

SSD and AD Role-Specific Applications

SSD Responsibilities: Monitor emotional and cognitive changes, collaborate with care teams, educate families
AD Responsibilities: Adjust activities for physical/cognitive needs, promote engagement, reduce sensory overload

Best Practices

Use short instructions, repetition, and visual cues
Maintain calm and structured environments
Validate emotions and avoid correcting memory lapses
Observe for frustration or withdrawal

🗣️ Reflection Questions

Describe a time when a resident had difficulty with a familiar activity. How did you adapt?
How can understanding nervous system aging improve your response to behavior changes?
List two ways to adapt group activities for someone with Parkinson’s or dementia.

📚 Sources

National Institute on Aging – www.nia.nih.gov
Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) – Long-Term Care Survey Manual, 2023
Mayo Clinic – www.mayoclinic.org
Alzheimer's Association – www.alz.org