1. What is the term for the process of adapting to a new or changing environment? How does this process affect the physiological functions of the body? - The term for the process of adapting to a new or changing environment is acclimatization. This process affects the physiological functions of the body by altering the homeostatic mechanisms that regulate temperature, fluid balance, oxygen delivery, and metabolic rate. For example, when a person moves from a low altitude to a high altitude, the body acclimatizes by increasing the production of red blood cells, enhancing the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, and increasing the respiratory rate and depth. 2. What are some of the physiological changes that occur in older adults as a result of aging? How do these changes affect their susceptibility to environmental stressors? - Some of the physiological changes that occur in older adults as a result of aging are: decreased muscle mass and strength, reduced bone density and joint mobility, decreased cardiac output and blood pressure, reduced lung capacity and elasticity, decreased renal function and urinary output, diminished sensory acuity and cognitive function, and impaired immune response. These changes affect their susceptibility to environmental stressors by reducing their ability to maintain homeostasis, cope with physical and psychological demands, and resist infections and injuries. 3. What are some of the environmental factors that can cause heat-related illnesses? What are the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke? How should they be managed? - Some of the environmental factors that can cause heat-related illnesses are: high ambient temperature, high humidity, direct exposure to sunlight, lack of ventilation, inadequate hydration, and excessive physical activity. The signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion are: profuse sweating, pale and clammy skin, weakness and fatigue, headache and dizziness, nausea and vomiting, muscle cramps, and rapid pulse. The signs and symptoms of heat stroke are: absence of sweating, red and dry skin, confusion and delirium, seizures and coma, high body temperature (>40°C), and rapid and shallow breathing. Heat exhaustion should be managed by moving the person to a cool and shaded place, removing excess clothing, applying cool water or wet towels to the skin, giving fluids orally if conscious, and monitoring vital signs. Heat stroke should be managed by calling for emergency medical assistance, moving the person to a cool and shaded place, removing excess clothing, applying ice packs or cold water to the body, giving fluids intravenously if possible, and monitoring vital signs. 4. What are some of the environmental factors that can cause cold-related injuries? What are the signs and symptoms of frostbite and hypothermia? How should they be managed? - Some of the environmental factors that can cause cold-related injuries are: low ambient temperature, high wind speed, wet clothing or skin, inadequate insulation or protection, prolonged exposure to cold, and reduced metabolic rate. The signs and symptoms of frostbite are: numbness and tingling of the affected area, pale or bluish color of the skin, hardening or freezing of the tissue, blisters or ulcers on the skin surface, and loss of sensation or function. The signs and symptoms of hypothermia are: shivering and chills, slurred speech and confusion, drowsiness and lethargy, slow and shallow breathing, slow and weak pulse, low body temperature (<35>