Abstract General summaries of the last four stages of human development: Adolescence, Young Adulthood, Middle Adulthood, and Late Adulthood. Examines physical, cognitive, and psycho-social aspects of development.
Adolescence
Definition
Reproduction
Risky behavior
Cognitive: Piaget (Formal operations), Elkind
Identity vs. identity confusion (Erikson)
Peer and Family relations
Young Adulthood
Cognitive: Postformal thought, Triarchic theory of
Intelligence (Sternberg), Emotional Intelligence
Personality: 5 factor model (Costa & McCrae)
Intimacy vs. Isolation (Erikson)
Levinson & the Grant Study
Culture: Marriage, childbirth, remaining single
Late Adulthood
Biological aging ? genetic programming, variable rate
theories
Physical changes
Cognitive ? Metamemory, semantic, procedural, sensory
Ego integrity versus despair (Erikson)
Disengagement, continuity, and activity theories
Retirement
Marriage, family, peer relationships
Living arrangements
From the Paper "Adolescence is the developmental transition from childhood to adulthood. Although its beginning or end is not clearly marked in Western societies, adolescence lasts about a decade from age 11 or 12 until the late teens or early twenties. Adolescence carries many risks to healthy development, as well as opportunities for physical, cognitive, and psychosocial growth."
Tags: erikson, geriatric, jung, middle-age, old, piaget, stage, young
Abstract History
Location
Occupations
Schooling
Family
Context of Interview
Discussion
Activity in normal day ? sleep, exercise, groups
Diet
Sensory changes
Memory assessment
Changing relationships: family & peers
Retirement and goals
Analysis
Physical performance: causes of illness, injury, and
sensory dysfunction
Education - Engagement process (Schaie), memory
Ego integrity versus despair (Erikson), Grant Study
Role of religion
Continuity theory (Atchley)
Balanced investment - role of siblings and family
members
From the Paper "Born in 1932, AB is a sixty-eight year old female from the central New York state area. AB grew up in a small town with her twin brother and two sisters. Her father passed away when she was two, and her siblings were then raised by their single mother. In her adult life, AB has worked as a dietician at a University Hospital. Currently, AB resides at the retirement community in New York."
Tags: aging, cognitive, elkind, erikson, geriatrics, late, old, social
Abstract This paper defines and clarifies the debate over different types of aging. Starting with the revolutionary work of Havighurst in the late 1960's and incorporating research from the present day, this paper defines the three central components of aging: physiological, psychological (cognitive), and social. Numerous examples of both successful and unsuccessful aging across all three components are described, and backed by empirical research. No clear "recipe" for successful aging can be given, but this paper is a thorough and modern overview of this facet of psychology as it stands today.
From the Paper "In the late 16th century the Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon set out on a quest to discover the fountain of youth. Intruding into uncharted and hostile Indian Territory, de Leon was struck dead by an arrow to his heart, at the age of 47. Today millions of Americans and billions worldwide are experiencing the golden years that evaded De Leon. But does older age necessarily equate to 'golden years'? Since at least the 1960s gerontologists have been developing conceptual frameworks, called schema, to describe ideal outcomes of the aging process. One of the most commonly used terms to describe good old age is "successful aging", often attributed to R.J. Havighurst (1961). This concept lies at the core of the practice of gerontology; the Havighurst article appeared as the first conceptual piece in the first issue of the discipline's prime publication, The Gerontologist. Defining 'successful' aging has been an issue of debate ever since. However, a complete definition must include at least three components: physiological, psychological (or cognitive), and social. It also must be able to be clearly distinguished from the opposite end of the spectrum, namely, 'unsuccessful' aging."
Abstract This review of Alzheimer's disease (AD) focuses on the various causes of the disease. It is a compilation of material gathered from various scientific journals. The review begins by giving an introduction of AD followed by a discussion of various factors believed to cause AD, such as: amyloid plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, apolipoprotein E, and genetic factors. The author concludes by stressing the need for more research into the causes of AD.
Introduction
Overview of Alzheimer's Disease
Pathological Causes of Alzheimer's Disease
Amyloid Plaques
Neurofibrillary Tangles
Genetic Factors in the Development of Alzheimer's Disease
Chromosome 19 and Apolipoprotein E
Other Genetic Factors
Presenilin
Conclusion
From the Paper "Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive memory loss and dementia. The precise mechanisms that cause AD are still unknown, however, certain factors that predispose individuals to Alzheimer's disease have been identified. Although no definitive cause has yet been discovered, this article reviews current research into various possible causes of AD, including the pathological causes, such as amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Also the genetic factors that cause AD, such as apolipoprotein E (apoE) and presenilin gene."
Abstract This paper discusses what Alzheimer Disease is and what the causes and effects of the disease are. It further examines available treatment for this conditions and investigates new breakthroughs in the medical field regarding treatment. The writer also looks at the predisposition of the disease and its patient.
From the Paper "Alzheimer disease (AD) is a progressive neuro-degenerative disease. It is characterized by memory loss, language deterioration, impaired visuospatial skills, poor judgment, and an indifferent attitude (NINDS, pg). This disease was first described by the German physician, Alois Alzheimer, 90 years ago (Manbir, pg). Alzheimer first demonstrated the typical microscopic changes in the autopsy of a woman in her 50's who had suffered what seemed to be a mental illness. Through the microscope he saw brain cells filled with twisted strands of fiber and surrounded by dense deposits (Manbir, pg). These features are the hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease. In this disorder gradual decline of brain function leads inevitably to death which can be anywhere from three to twenty years after the disease is diagnosed (Manbir, pg). AD is a progressive disease and its course varies from person to person. The most common cause of death in Alzheimer's patients is infection (NINDS, pg)."
This paper reports the findings of the writer's observations of the following three populations: (1) Young children in a public playground; (2) A group of adolescents "hanging out" in a mall and (3) Seniors on an outing to Las Vegas.
Abstract The paper discusses the following characteristics and features of each population-- their reason for gathering together, the "rules" that seem to govern their interaction; common behavior; their response to "outsiders;" their reactions to new group members; their communicatory processes; their handling of extreme emotions or outbursts; their appearance and dress; their handling of money and/or possessions; and the types of personalities noted in each group.
From the Paper "In terms of handling money or possessions, one child was given some money by a parent in order to get a coke from a nearby vendor (he appeared to be the oldest child in the group). This soon resulted in about a third of the children asking their mothers to either give them money to purchase a coke or buy them a coke. Those children whose parents refused were upset, although the expression of this "upsetness" varied from child to child with a couple of children acting like they were about to die of thirst (and then the parent would be sorry) while others just put on a sad or miffed face and let it go at that, their attention almost immediately being caught by something else."
Abstract Since its inception, the Social Security system has provided benefits to augment the income of people upon their retirement. However, current projections point to a crisis in Social Security. Experts believe that by 2038, the Social Security trust fund will have been depleted. This paper presents an overview of the current social security crisis and evaluates the plans to address this problem. The first part of the paper provides a history of the Social Security system, from its inception in 1935 to its current status under the federal government. The next part then studies how the Social Security system is funded. In the final part, the paper studies the problems facing many retirees who stand to be adversely affected by the Social Security deficit. It looks at the pitfalls of privatization and other methods now being used to address the problem, such as proposed tax credits, simplifying the tax process and key changes in retirement policy.
From the Paper "A privatized pension allows employers to manage the plan's assets, while promising to credit the worker's pensions with a corresponding interest rate. However, employers have often changed this rate, reducing the value of their employees' pensions. For example, when companies like IBM, AT&T and Citibank switched from traditional pensions to cash balance plan, the pensions paid to longtime employees were significantly reduced. Because of the potential for abuse, conversions to cash-balance plans were banned in 1999. The Bush plan for privatization, however, would allow employers to return to such practices, under the guise of augmenting the Social Security trust fund (Leone)."
Abstract The paper examines the many forms of abuse which take place against the some of the most vulnerable members of society - the elderly. It discusses the issues of neglect, physical and sexual abuse, as well as violation of basic rights such as proper healthcare and nutrition. The paper explores solutions for these types of abuse such as prevention and rest home quality management in the form of risk management/control teams whose jobs it will be to keep track and attempt to prevent all forms of abuse.
From the Paper "Another large chunk of abuse cases arise from self-neglect. As stated earlier, as much as 50% of abuse cases are cases of self neglect. There are several tricky issues with this case. For example, if an elder adult is capable of making the decision not to take care of himself/herself, is it really neglect. People have the right to refuse treatments, and pretty much do whatever they want to do in terms of care for their own bodies. How should the staff deal with this? The first step is to report the problem to joint personnel. Documenting the problems, informing family and friends of the problems, etc, can save the hospital from liability. More importantly, perhaps a friend or a family member can talk the elder into taking better care of himself/herself. It also needs to be determined if the person is indeed capable of making such decisions for himself/herself. Again, many people come into play here, like the psychiatric department and the pharmaceutical department, under the heading of the risk management, to determine the general health of the patient, and what can be done."
Abstract The paper discusses how the process of aging has changed. It shows how the media has influenced this change by portraying negative stereotypes of the elderly and how people are trying to stay young as long as possible by having surgery performed on them, staying active in their old age, and retiring later on in life.
From the Paper "Today, it is seen as a crime to grow old. When we think of the elderly, we no longer see the heroic image of George Washington or Ben Franklin. Instead, we see the image of a frail and weak person. "Other cultures value age and the wisdom of experience; we disparage and mock it, viewing it as a weakness, a personal misfortune" (Ross). This image is in part due to negative stereotypes of the elderly being portrayed in the media. People are afraid of becoming like this image and to prevent it, they are investing in the many anti-aging products on the market, like hair-dye and anti-aging cream. They are also being more productive in their old age. Today, men and women alike are participating in a fight against time and they are refusing to grow old."
Abstract Compares and contrasts suicide in both age groups. Epidemiological diagnoses (risk factors, psychiatric illness, health changes, depression, hopelessness). Behavioral diagnosis (family discord, love problems, substance abuse, school problems, social isolation). Educational diagnosis (influence of peers, home, school). Use of firearms as most popular method of suicide of both age groups.
From the Paper "Suicide Among Youth and the Elderly
This research paper will present, compare and contrast the topic of suicide among the youth and the elderly. Focus will also include a description of an epidemiological, behavioral, and educational diagnosis.
Suicide Among the Youth
The CDC reported that the number of suicides in 1988 was 30,575 or 11.13 per 100,000 American population. Suicide is the eighth leading cause of death. Females attempt suicide more than males, and males die four times more (73% white males). Suicide is the third cause of death for those ages 15 to 24, the fourth leading cause of death for those ages 10 to 14 years, and rates increase with age (highest for 65 years and older) (NCIPC, 2001; The Surgeon General, 1999). Firearm-related suicides are the most popular..."
Abstract Discusses effect of conditions in nursing homes on the elderly. Nursing home industry. Complaints of neglect and abuse. Issue of elderly abuse in institutional facilities, especially long-term care facilities. Economics of nursing home care. Staffing problems. Reform measures to prevent abuse. Role of legisltors. Domestic abuse of the elderly.
From the Paper "Nell Hoover choked on laxative.
Vestal Ferguson suffocated as orange juice filled his lungs.
Esther Fincher's heart failed, and nobody called a doctor. Each year, hundreds of North Carolina's elderly suffer needlessly in the nursing homes they turn to for care. They lie for hours in their own waste or battle dangerously infected bedsores or, bound to their beds and wheelchairs, slowly lose the strength and will to walk, eat, speak. They're victims of poorly staffed homes and under-trained workers--and of the public system responsible for protecting them. The state pays the bills for 75% of our nursing home..."
Abstract This paper explains that, in a rapidly aging society, the American bias towards youth will have to be replaced by an added level of respect for the elderly. This paper reviews the theory of Erik Erikson on his life journey through many stages. This author stresses issues of family, spirituality and economic well-being and urges that American families begin to include the aged within their household as is the practice in most of the world.
From the Paper "In other more inclusive cultures, it is well understood that life's journey is circular in motion. Issues that have been dealt with in the past continually re-emerge, and the most important issue of all is that of relationships. Because human beings are above all social animals, the society one depends on is by far the most important aspect of aging. This concept is well understood in Asia and in South America, but apparently, it is not as paramount in the United States."
Abstract This paper examines how the cost of prescription drugs is rising in the United States at a rate that outstrips the ability of people without health insurance to pay for them. It looks at how medications absorb up to 30% of the income of many senior citizens, and over 40 million Americans have no health insurance at all. It proposes that those without prescription insurance coverage be combined into one identifiable group eligible for the price discounts negotiated by HMOs and other coverage providers, thus giving all Americans access to volume discount prices for medications.
From the Paper "Struggling with the cost of medications is not a new problem, and has been a topic of public debate since the 1950's when Senator Estes Kefauver led hearings regarding the pricing policies of the big pharmaceutical companies (Buell, 1999). He accused them of raising their prices unfairly. The industry replied that federal control on prices would devalue stocks and discourage research on new medications, just the claims made today. While there is no doubt that research done pharmaceutical companies has resulted in many new and valuable medications, research is not their only expense. Large amounts of money are spent on advertising, and in the United States, the high cost of medications puts them out of reach of millions who need them (Buell, 1999)."
Abstract The paper states that patient access to quality healthcare in the US is rapidly changing due to a variety of reasons. The paper confirms that patient access to healthcare is declining due to, amongst other reasons, increasing numbers of uninsured patients. The paper discusses that medical facilities are facing new challenges that can act as barriers to quality and safe patient care.
Outline:
Introduction
The Impact of the Uninsured on Patient Access to Quality Care
Impact of Labor Shortage on Patient Access to Quality Care
Managing Supply and Demand
Ethical Considerations of Access to Quality Healthcare
Conclusion
From the Paper "The Impact of the Uninsured on Patient Access to Quality Care
The economy in certain regions of the United States is declining due to the jobless rate and unemployment. Declining profits in the private sector force employers to re-evaluate current employee healthcare benefits and make necessary cuts to healthcare services to offset rising health insurance premiums. The number of people without health insurance coverage increased from 44.8 million in 2005 to 47 million in 2006. Currently 47 million Americans, including nearly nine million children do not have health insurance."
Abstract This paper identifies the causes of elder depression, possible treatments for the disease, and proposes a geriatric intervention program that would reduce depression in the elderly population. This type of depression is the often undiagnosed and as a result, under treated. The author defines depression, and details its many different signs, focusing on those that are particularly difficult to detect in the elderly. The author then details the steps that should be taken in treating this disease, including an initial visit to a physician, proper diagnosis, treatment and a carefully monitored medication schedule. The patient should then enter the care of a psychiatrist, or psychologist, preferably with their spouse, or other family members in order to help the person through this difficult period in time. The message that this author hopes to bring to the reader is that the elderly are a unique population, who often suffer from a very common disease, but they need to be treated keeping their special status in mind.
From the Paper "Depression is a persistently sad mood that impairs one's ability to function normally in work, home, or social relationships. A depressed person cannot be cheered up or rid themselves of their mood, any more than they could rid themselves of another medical problem such as diabetes or heart disease. Sometimes the sad mood is obvious; sometimes it takes the form of losing interest and pleasure in usual activities. According to the DSM-IV (1998), symptoms of depression are as follows: (A) Depressed mood for most of the day, for more days than not, as indicated either by subjective account or observation by others, for at least 2 years. (B) Presence, while depressed, of two (or more) of the following: (1) poor appetite or overeating (2) insomnia or hypersomnia (3) low energy or fatigue (4) low self-esteem (5) poor concentration or difficulty making decisions (6) feelings of hopelessness (C) The symptoms are not due to the direct physiological effects of a substance (e.g., a drug of abuse, a medication) or a general medical condition (e.g., hypothyroidism). (D) The symptoms cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. Despite concrete measures of depression such as those outlined in the DSM-IV (1998), it is difficult to diagnose in the elderly, because depression often has a high comorbidity with other medical illnesses (Miller 1997). Commonly, identifying depression in an elderly individual in conjunction with his or her other ailments presents itself as a challenge to medical professionals and caregivers (Miller 1997)."
