D-G
Senior Glossary
Deductible: The total initial amount insured parties must pay for services covered under an insurance plan before the insurer pays benefits. Dementia: A term describing a group of diseases (including Alzheimer’s Disease) characterized by memory loss and other declines in mental and sometimes emotional functioning. Disability: A limitation in physical, mental, or social activity. There are varying types (functional, occupational, learning), degrees (partial, total), and durations (temporary, permanent) of disabilities. Doughnut hole: Also known as the Medicare coverage gap, the doughnut hole refers to the requirement that enrollees in Part D prescription drug plans pay 100 percent of their prescription drug costs after their total drug spending i.e., what the plan had paid plus the enrollee’s deductible and copays exceeds an initial coverage limit and until they qualify for catastrophic coverage. Durable medical equipment (DME): Equipment and supplies ordered by a health care provider for everyday or extended use. Coverage for DME may include: oxygen equipment, wheelchairs, crutches, or blood testing strips for diabetics. Elder Abuse: A term referring to any knowing, intentional, or negligent act by a caregiver or any other person that causes harm or a serious risk of harm to a vulnerable adult. Law varies from state to state, but broadly defined, abuse may be physical, emotional, sexual, financial, neglect, and abandonment. Emergency Response System (ERS): A call button – usually worn as a necklace by an older individual- which can be pushed to reach family, friends, or help in case of an emergency. Energy Assistance: Programs that provide low-income elderly homeowners and renters with funds to help pay home utility and heating costs. Eligibility requirements may vary from state to state. Geriatrics: A branch of medicine focusing on the physiology and ailments associated with the aging process. Geriatrician: A physician who is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine of Family Practice in the care of older people.
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Frequently Used Aging Terms
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