Chapter 2 Flashcards
Define aging
The process of growing older that begins at birth
What are nonstochastic theories?
Explain biological aging as resulting from a complex, predetermined process
What are stochastic theories?
View the effects of biological aging as resulting from random assaults from both the internal and external environment
What is the main premise of the cross-linking theory?
Cellular division is threatened as a result of radiation or chemical reaction, creating cross-linking agents
What do free radicals and lipofuscin theories focus on?
Oxidative metabolism and effects of free radicals; lipofuscin accumulation interferes with normal processes
What does the wear and tear theory suggest?
Repetitive use, injury, and stress result in breakdown of the body
What is the mutation accumulation theory?
Declining force of natural selection with age
What does the antagonistic pleiotropy theory propose?
Accumulated mutant genes that have negative effects in late life may have beneficial effects in early life
What is the disposable soma theory?
Aging is related to the use of the body’s energy rather than genetics
What is programmed cell death in the context of aging?
Continuous occurrence of cell death throughout life due to biochemical events
What does the genetic theory of aging suggest?
Born with a genetic program that predetermines life span
What is the error theory in aging?
Genetic mutations cause organ decline as a result of self-perpetuating cellular mutations
What do autoimmune reactions refer to in aging?
Changes in immune function with aging
What are neuroendocrine and neurochemical theories focused on?
Changes in brain and endocrine glands with aging
What do nutrition theories suggest about aging?
Good diet may minimize or eliminate some ill effects of aging
What does the disengagement theory state?
Gradual disengagement between society and individual; transfer of power from old to young
What is the activity theory of aging?
Older person should continue a middle-aged lifestyle; society should not advocate diminishing activity
What does the continuity theory assert?
Personality and basic patterns of behavior will remain unchanged as individual ages
What is the subculture theory regarding older adults?
Older adults are a group with distinct norms, beliefs, expectations, and habits
Fill in the blank: The continuity theory of aging states that personality and basic patterns of behavior are said to remain ______ as the individual ages.
[unchanged]
What are developmental tasks in psychology?
Challenges that must be met and adjustments that must be made in response to life experiences
What are Erikson’s stages of development?
Trust, autonomy, initiative, industry, identity, intimacy, generativity, integrity
What are Robert Peck’s developmental tasks?
Ego differentiation vs. role preoccupation, body transcendence vs. body preoccupation, ego transcendence vs. ego preoccupation
What does gerotranscendence refer to?
Transition from rational, materialistic metaperspective to cosmic and transcendent vision
What is the functional consequences theory in nursing?
Promotion of wellness by addressing individuals holistically, recognizing interconnection of body, mind, and spirit
What is the theory of thriving in aging?
Everything that impacts people throughout their life must be linked to create a holistic view of aging
What does the theory of successful aging consider?
Physical, mental, spiritual well-being, and self-appraisal
True or False: No single theory can adequately explain the aging process.
True
What factors contribute to a long and healthy life?
- Diet
- Activity
- Play and laughter
- Faith
- Empowerment
- Stress management
True or False: The genetic theories of aging best describe how and why a person ages.
False
