Ch: theories of aging

Question 1

why do we have a theory of aging

Answer 1

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

Question 2

effects of aging from random assaults from environment over time

Answer 2

stochastic theories

Question 3

types of stochastic theories

Answer 3

Wear and tear
Evolutionary
Cross-linking
Biogerontology

Question 4

aging comes from complex, predetermined process

Answer 4

nonstochastic theories

Question 5

types of nonstochastic theories

Answer 5

Programmed
Genetic
Autoimmune
Environmental

Question 6

stochastic theory: threat to cellular division – overtime, our body begins to break down from slow damage

Answer 6

cross-link theory

Question 7

Stochastic theory: Aging occurs due to repeated use and injury over time

Answer 7

wear and tear theory

Question 8

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

Answer 8

evolutionary theory

Question 9

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

Answer 9

biogerontology

Question 10

nonstochastic theory: Continual process of programmed cell death due to biochemical events that occur throughout life – not sudden

Answer 10

programmed theory

Question 11

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

Answer 11

genetic theory

Question 12

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

Answer 12

autoimmune theory

Question 13

Nonstochastic theory: Ingestion of substances, crowded living conditions, air pollutants, high noise influence the aging process

Answer 13

environmental theory

Question 14

Believes that it benefits society to disengage from older adults - very controversial

Answer 14

disengagement theory

Question 15

limitations/criticisms of disengagement theory

Answer 15

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

Question 16

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

Answer 16

activity theory

Question 17

limitations/criticisms to active theory

Answer 17

• 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

Question 18

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

Answer 18

continuity theory

Question 19

• 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

Answer 19

subculture theory

Question 20

limitations of subculture theory

Answer 20

• No research to support this theory
• Was evident in 1950’s, but not now

Question 21

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

Answer 21

Age stratification theory

Question 22

Accept and find meaning in life; adjusts/cope with aging and mortality

Answer 22

integrity

Question 23

feelings of anger, bitterness, depression, inadequacy with life choices – focused on past

Answer 23

despair

Question 24

Adjust to one’s infirmities
Develop satisfaction with life
Prepare for death

Answer 24

Butler and Lewis

Question 25

giving away material things
Desire connection with others rather than material things

Answer 25

gerotranscendence

Question 26

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

Answer 26

functional consequences theory

Question 27

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

Answer 27

theory of thriving

Question 28

Considers successful aging in terms of physical, mental, and spiritual well-being and self-appraisal

Answer 28

theory of successful aging

Question 29

factors promoting a healthy lifestyle

Answer 29

diet
activity
play and laughter
faith
empowerment
stress management