Answer to Question 1
Cessation of activity of the cerebral cortex.
Lack of response to external stimuli, including painful stimuli.
Absence of brain wave activity as recorded by an electroencephalogra m (EEG).
Absence of spontaneous breathing or movement.
Lack of observable reflexes.
These standards must be met in two separate tests performed 24 hours apart.
Answer to Question 2
Medication abuse is a growing problem.
250,000 older adults are hospitalized each year because of adverse drug reactions.
Doctors sometimes prescribe an incorrect dosage.
Some people misunderstand directions or are unable to keep track of their dosage.
Many older people have more than one doctor; treatment plans are not coordinated.
Alcohol and drug interactions have a greater effect on older people than younger people.