Aging individual THE Presented by T.MAGLIN ANUSHA M.SC (N)
INTRODUCTION The concept of “ OLD ”has changed drastically over the years.Our prehistoric ancestors probably had a life span of 400 years,with the average individual living around 180 years.As civilization developed ,mortality rates remained high as a result of periodic famine and frequent malnutrition
DEFINITION Ageing or aging is the process of becoming older.Aging is associated with changes in dynamic Biological, physiological , environmental,psychological , Behavioural and social processes. Gerontology is the study of the aging process.
Geriatrics is the branch of clinical medicine specializing in problems of the elderly. Geropsychiatry is the branch of clinical medicine specializing in psychopathology of the elderly population
THEORIES OF AGING A number of theories related to the aging process have been described. These theories are grouped into 2 broad categories. They are:
BIOLOGICAL THEORIES Biological theories attempt to explain the physical,process of aging ,including molecular and cellular changes in the major organ systems Biological theories contain 5 major theories : They are
According to the genetic theory, aging is an involuntary inherited process that operates over time to alter cellular or tissue structure This theory suggests that life span and longevity changes are predetermined GENETIC THEORY
Free radicals ,which are the waste products of metabolism, accumulate and cause damage to important biological structures According to this theory ,these free radicals cause DNA damage , crosss -linkage of collagen and the accumulation of age pigment WEAR AND TEAR THEORY
According to this theory ,factors in the environment eg;Industrial carcinogens sunlight ,trauma and infection bring about changes in the aging process ENVIRONMENTAL THEORY
IMMUNITY THEORY It describes the age –related decline in the immune system. As people age,their ability to,defend against foreign organisms decreases, resulting in susceptibility to diseases such as cancer and infection
This theory proposes that aging occurs because of a slowing of the secretion of certain hormones that have an impact on reactions regulated by the nervous system. This is demonstrated by pituitary gland,thyroid ,adrenals and the glands of reproduction NEUROENDOCRINE THEORY
Psychosocial theories focus on social and psychological Changes that accompany advancing age,as opposed to the biological implications of anatomic deterioration Psychosocial theory contains 4 major theories
P S Y C H O S O C I A L T H E O R Y
PERSONALITY THEORY It address aspects of psychological growth without deliveating specific tasks or expectations of older adults. Some evidence suggests that personality characteristics in Old age are highly correclated with early life characteristics
DISENGAGEMENT THEORY Describes the process of withdrawal by older adults from social roles and responsibilities. According to the theory, this withdrawal process is predictable, systemic inevitable and necessary for the proper functioning of a growing society
ACTIVITY THEORY This theory holds that the maintenance of activities is Important to most people as a basis for feriving and sustaining satisfaction,self -esteem and health CONTINUITY THEORY It emphasis the individuals previously established coping abilities and personal character traits as a basis for predicting how the person will adjust
NORMAL AGING PROCESS
BIOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF AGING Individuals are unique in their physical and psychological aging process,as influenced by their predisposition and resistance to illness,the effects of their external environment and Behavoiurs and the health and illness practices they have a dopted during their life span SKIN Loss of elastin in the skin ,changes in collagen causes aged skin to wrinkle and sag
CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM Loss of pacemaker cells,decrease in maximal heart rate,diminished output Decreased elasticity of heart valves RESPIRATORY SYSTEM Decreased vital capacity,diminished Cough reflex and laryngeal reflex, Decreased pulmonary blood flow
GENITOURINARY AND REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM Altered absorption from GI tract, constipation, reduction in dentine production, shrinkage and fibrosis of root pulp GASTROINTESTINAL SYSTEM Decreased glomerular filtration rate, hardness of erection , decresed vaginal lubrication ,enlargement of prostate , constipation
Decreased in height because of shortening of spinal column(2 inches) ,reduction in muscle strength, loss of bone matrix MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM Estrogen levels decreases in women ,testosterone decreases in men, increases in follicle-stimulating hormone and leutinizing hormone ENDOCRINE
IMMUNE SYSTEM SPECIAL SENSES Thickening of optic lens ,reduced peripheral vision, inability to accomdate ,reduced acuity of taste ,smell and touch Increased susceptibility of infection
PSYCHOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF AGING Memory functioning Intellectual Functioning Learning Ability
SOCIO-CULTURAL ASPECTS OF AGING Elderly people in virtually all cultures share some basic needs and interests,they want protection from hazards and release from the weariness of everyday tasks. They want to die with the same respect and dignity SEXUAL ASPECTS OF AGING Cultural stereotypes play a large in the misperception many people hold regarding sexuality of older adults
Decline in ovarian function, Reduced production of estrogen Vaginal dryness Menopausal symptoms (hot flashes, night sweats,sleeplessness ,irritability, mood swings) PHYSICAL CHANGES ASSOCIATED WITH SEXUALITY IN WOMEN : IN MEN : Decline in testosterone production Erectile dysfunction Decrease in testicular size Decrease in amount of ejaculate
SPECIAL CONCERN OF ELDERLY POPULATION RETIREMENT Retirement cause negative reactions to bring retired,feelings Of being unproductive ,economic hardship and loneliness Retirement has both social and economic implication for Elderly individuals ELDER ABUSE Abuse of elderly individuals may be - Psychological - Physical - Financial
PSYCHOLOGICAL ABUSE Yelling Insulting Harsh commands Threats and social isolation PHYSICAL ABUSE Stricking Beating and restraints FINANCIAL ABUSE Misuse or theft of finances, E L D E R A B U S E
PSYCHIATRIC DISORDERS IN LATER LIFE SADOCK AND SADOCK (2007) States that : Several psychosocial risk factors predispose older people to mental disorders. These risk factors include loss of social roles ,loss of autonomy, death of friends and relatives ,declining health, increased isolation, financial constraints and decreased cognitive functioning Psychiatric disorders among elderly people are :
The nurse should demonstrate leadership and competence in implementing the role of the primary care nurse practitioner The nurse should set the goal is to meet the behavioural health needs of both the patient and their families Integrate advanced knowledge and experience in delivering safe, effective , quality care to geriatric clients Engage in counseling ,communication, collaboration and teaching in a manner t hat reflects caring, advocacy, ethics and professional Standards Consulatation is provided in multidisciplinary teams headed by a psychiatrist
Provide schedule about the therapy classes ,and other counseling courses and self care activities Encourage the client family members to mingle with the client and support the client in every activities Teach about current conditions and treatment to the patients and their relatives
PHYSIOLOGICALLY RELATED DIAGNOSIS Impaired physical mobility related to muscular wasting and weakness Disturbed sensory- perception related to age –related alterations Disturbed sleep pattern related to age-related cognitive decline,decrease in ability to sleep Self –care deficit related to weakness,confusion or disorientation Risk for trauma related to confusion NURSING DIAGNOSIS
PSYCHOSOCIALLY RELATED DIAGNOSIS Disturbed thought process Disturbed body image Low self esteem related to loss of pre-retirement status