Embedded Files
For individuals with a developmental disability
- There is a higher incidence of hypertension in certain cultures e.g. non-Hispanic blacks and African American males
- 43% of individuals with developmental disabilities also have hypertension ( National Centre for Chronic Diseases)
- There is no change in the resting heart rate with aging
CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM
- Chambers of the heart may enlarge and become thicker
- Blood vessels may narrow and thicken
- Cardiac output may be affected impacting circulation
- Congenital heart defect/valve abnormalities, if present, may affect heart function
- Hypertension/Hypotension may develop
Note: Hypertension is not a normal aging change
CARDIOVASCULAR FUNCTIONAL CHANGES
- Any sudden or unexplained change in the individual should be investigated medically
- Heart rate may change e.g. rhythm irregularities may be noted
- ‘At Rest Heart Rate’ does not change with age
- Blood volume decreases so lab values may show a decrease in red and white blood cell counts
- Decreased oxygen utilization may occur
- Compromised circulation may occur
- Electrocardiogram changes may be noted
- Pain may occur/be reported
- Shortness of breath may occur
- Fatigue may be reported/noted
- Extremity swelling may be noted
- Skin changes e.g. color and temperature may be noted
- Blood clots may occur
- Fluid retention may occur
- Hypertension may lead to heart failure, renal failure, or stroke
Report abuse