Ch: theories of aging Flashcards
why do we have a theory of aging
Can help explain the aging process
Helps to keep people healthy and active
Better understanding of factors that positively and negatively influence health
NO single known factor causes/prevents aging
Interrelated and interdependent
effects of aging from random assaults from environment over time
stochastic theories
types of stochastic theories
Wear and tear
Evolutionary
Cross-linking
Biogerontology
aging comes from complex, predetermined process
nonstochastic theories
types of nonstochastic theories
Programmed
Genetic
Autoimmune
Environmental
stochastic theory: threat to cellular division – overtime, our body begins to break down from slow damage
cross-link theory
Stochastic theory: Aging occurs due to repeated use and injury over time
wear and tear theory
stochastic theory: Differences in aging of species due to interplay between mutation and natural selection
People are living longer due to natural selection through reproduction
evolutionary theory
Stochastic theory: Study of the connection between aging and disease
Control or elimination of certain pathogens
People are living longer because of the prevention/control of pathogens
biogerontology
nonstochastic theory: Continual process of programmed cell death due to biochemical events that occur throughout life – not sudden
programmed theory
Nonstochastic theory: Animals and humans are born with genetic program/”biological clock” that predetermines life span; the process of getting old is under genetic control
Error theory: Genetic mutations cause organ decline from cellular mutations that causes aging
genetic theory
Nonstochastic theory: Reduction in the body’s immunological activities decreases autoimmune response –take longer to heal and recover – HAND HYGIENE
Cells undergo changes body misidentifies the changes develops antibodies
autoimmune theory
Nonstochastic theory: Ingestion of substances, crowded living conditions, air pollutants, high noise influence the aging process
environmental theory
Believes that it benefits society to disengage from older adults - very controversial
disengagement theory
limitations/criticisms of disengagement theory
Older adults can desire to remain engaged
Older adults can still be a valuable service to society without disengaging
Wouldn’t be necessary if society embraced the older adult
Persons of color and chronically ill persons not included in study for theory
Older adult continues living middle-aged lifestyle
Denial of old age for as long as possible
Disagrees with diminishing activity, interest, or involvement as one ages
activity theory
limitations/criticisms to active theory
- Many older adults lack the physical, emotional,
social, and financial ability to continue lifestyle - Income has changed - may not be able to afford old activities
Personality and predisposition remain unchanged
from the younger age
* Patterns develop overtime and stick
* Encourages the young to consider their current
activities lay a foundation for future age
* Basic psychological patterns are consistent
throughout the life span
continuity theory
- Older adults are their own group with distinct
patterns, expectations, habits, issues, interests, and
norms - Older adults feel more accepted by those in their
same group - Keep separate from rest of society; allows for
greater sense of empowerment and social reform to
fight for rights
subculture theory
limitations of subculture theory
- No research to support this theory
- Was evident in 1950’s, but not now
Persons within a similar age group have similar experiences, beliefs, and attitudes
Interdependence between the society and group
Have many things and memories in common and can make friends with each other
Age stratification theory
Accept and find meaning in life; adjusts/cope with aging and mortality
integrity
feelings of anger, bitterness, depression, inadequacy with life choices – focused on past
despair
Adjust to one’s infirmities
Develop satisfaction with life
Prepare for death
Butler and Lewis
giving away material things
Desire connection with others rather than material things
gerotranscendence
Nurses can promote wellness by addressing ppl holistically recognizing the interconnection b/w body, spirit, and mind
Consequences of aging can be positive or negative
functional consequences theory
Everything that impacts a person affects the aging process
Thriving occurs when harmony exists b/w individual and physical/human environments
Helps find meaning in life and adapt to changes
theory of thriving
Considers successful aging in terms of physical, mental, and spiritual well-being and self-appraisal
theory of successful aging
factors promoting a healthy lifestyle
diet
activity
play and laughter
faith
empowerment
stress management
