116: Foundations of aging Flashcards
Why is the population of older adults expected to grow?
There is a better healthcare system, access to maintenance medications, etc.
Life expectancy in the Philippines for males and females
Male = 66.2 Female = 72.6
Biologic theories: Stochastic (random)
View the effect of aging as a result of random assaults from both internal and external environment
Cross-linking theory
Cross-linking agent attaches itself to a DNA strand and prevents anaphase
Free radicals and Lipofuscin theories
Aging is caused by oxidative metabolism
Wear and tear theories
Repeated use and injury of body over time causes aging
Evolutionary theories
Interplay between processes of mutation and natural selection
Biogerontology
Physiologic changes are caused by microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, viruses)
Biologic theories: Non-stochastic (non-random)
These theories see aging changes resulting from a complex, predetermined process
Autoimmune theories
Cells change due to age → body redtags aged cells → attacks them
Genetic theories
People are born with a genetic programming/ biological clock
Radiation theories
Radiation may include cellular mutations that promote aging
Nutrition theories
Good diet reduced bad effects of aging
Environmental theories
Environmental factors may threaten health
Disengagement theory
Gradual withdrawing of society and older adults from each other; discredited since older adults still want to be a part of society
Activity theory
Older persons should continue their middle-aged lifestyle (e.g., pursue their old interests to a lesser, more age-friendly degree)
Continuity theory
Personality and basic patterns of behavior are said to remain unchanged as the individual ages (e.g., loves music then and now)
Subculture theory
Older adults formed their own culture with distinct norms, beliefs, etc., as a response to the negative attitudes and treatment by society
Age stratification theory
As each group ages, they have their own unique experience with and influence on society
Developmental tasks according to Erik Erikson
Ego integrity vs. despair
3 challenges of older adults that affect the outcome (if either ego integrity or despair)
a. Ego differentiation vs. role preoccupation
b. Body transcendence vs. body preoccupation
c. Ego transcendence vs. ego preoccupation
Geotranscendence
Materialistic metaperspective → cosmic and transcendent vision. There is a desire to shed roles and invest time in discovering hidden facets of oneself.
Functional consequences theory
Nurses promote wellness by providing holistic care
Theory of thriving
Nurses should consider the many factors that can impact health and quality of life for older adults in order for the latter to experience harmony between self and surroundings
Theory of successful aging
People with high levels of personal control and a positive affect will experience higher levels of wellness in aging due to their ability to participate in health-promoting activities
