The Aging

Adult
Theories of Aging

• Genetic—genes control “genetic clocks”

• Immunity—focuses on the functions of the immune
system
• Cross-linkage—chemical reaction produces damage to the
DNA and cell death
• Free radical—molecules with separated high-energy
electrons have adverse effects on adjacent molecules
Development of the Middle Adult

• Physiologic—gradual internal and external physiologic

changes occur
• Cognitive—little change from young adulthood
• Psychosocial—time of increased personal freedom,
economic stability, and social relationships
Developmental Tasks of Middle Adulthood

• Establish and guide the next generation

• Accept middle-age changes
• Adjust to the needs of aging parents
• Reevaluate one’s goals and accomplishments
Middle Adult Years Characterized by
Expanded Family Roles
Leading Causes of Death
in Middle Adulthood

• Motor vehicle crashes

• Occupational accidents
• Suicide
• Chronic diseases
Major Health Problems

• Cardiovascular and pulmonary disease

• Cancer
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Diabetes mellitus
• Obesity
• Alcoholism
• Depression
Role of the Caregiver in Promoting Health

• Teach the dangers of substance abuse, smoking, and

alcohol consumption
• Teach adults to eat a diet low in fat and cholesterol
• Teach the importance of regular exercise
Life Changes of the Middle Years

• Employment
• Relationship with a spouse
• Relationships with adult children
• Middle transition
Development of the Older Adult

• Physiologic—all organ systems undergo some degree of

decline, body less efficient
• Cognitive—does not change appreciably, may take longer
to respond and react
• Psychosocial—self-concept is relatively stable throughout
adult life
• Disengagement theory
• Erikson—ego integrity versus despair and disgust; life
review
• Havighurst—major tasks are maintenance of social
contacts and relationships
Common Myths of the Older Adults
(Ageism)

• Old age begins at 65 years

• Most older adults are in nursing homes
• Older adults are sick, and mental deterioration occurs
• Older adults are not interested in sex
• Bladder problems are a problem of aging
• Older adults do not deserve aggressive treatment for
illnesses
Changes of Older Adulthood
• Physical strength and health
• Retirement and reduced income
• Health of spouse
• Relating to one’s age group
• Social roles
• Living arrangements
• Family and role reversal
Moral and Spiritual Development
of Older Adults
• Kohlberg—older adults have completed their moral
development and most are at a conventional level
• Spiritually, an adult may be at earlier level, often at
individuative-reflective level
• Many adults demonstrate conjunctive faith and trust in a
greater power
• Self-transcendence is characteristic of later life
Basis for Teaching Plan for Older Adults

• Chronic illness limits activities in almost half of older

adults
• Meeting expenses of healthcare is often difficult
– Medication costs, hospitalization costs, and costs of
special equipment and supplies
• Family members must learn to cope with needs of the ill
person
• Family members must adapt to psychological stressors
Causes of Accidental Injuries in Older
Adults
• Changes in vision and hearing
• Loss of mass and strength of muscles
• Slower reflexes and reaction time
• Decreased sensory ability
• Combined effects of chronic illness and medications
• Economic factors
Mental Impairment in Older Adults

• Dementia
• Alzheimer’s disease
• Sundowning syndrome
Goal of Nursing Care

• Promote independent function

• Support individual strengths
• Prevent complications of illness
• Secure a safe and comfortable environment
• Promote return to health
Interventions for Hospitalized Older
Adults Prevent Complications