From the Paper "This study will describe "Murray Manor," the nursing home depicted in Jaber F. Gubrium's Living and Dying at Murray Manor, as a society.
The world of Murray Manor is a tightly structured one in its more objective features (power allocation, division of labor, etc.). One of the most important elements of the power exercised by the staff at the home --- especially the top staff---is the power to define reality. Reality in the home is focused on the success or failure of the staff to perform its work effectively.
In other words, when there is a problem with the operation of the home, the fault is never with the system, but with the people. The power that otherwise might be used to change the system, then, is used instead to adjust the human operations in increments, hiring and firing, etc. The basic problems of the ..."
Examines the need and methods for more ethical and caring counseling for the elderly, especially in social research, technological areas and consent. Includes an abstract.
2,700 words (approx. 10.8 pages), 11 sources, 1995, $ 95.95
New definitions are needed for dealing with America's aging population. In debunking ageism and redefining the rights of the elderly, there is a dire need to center the care of the aging within an ethical space. To work well with the elderly, counselors must have respect, patience, and a high regard for their aging clients. The Middle Eastern scholar Haim (1994) suggests that a problem solving approach to the old must be abandoned and replaced by a social constructionist approach. If contemporary culture can grow more comfortable with the reality of death itself than there will also exist additional ease with the elderly. Robinson & Gross (1986) need to weigh in the factor of therapeutic intent against a more specialized cost-benefit ratio. Elderly patients must be treated with dignity, must be ..."
Abstract Discusses evaluating nutrition for the elderly population. Issue of mindset of the elderly, as well as availability of food, vitamins and supplements. Problem of the institutionalized elderly who have an inadequate intake of specific nutrients. Food habits. Measures to build up the daily nutrient intake of the elderly and increase awareness of proper nutrition.
From the Paper "THE ELDERLY AND NUTRITION: AN EVALUATION
An overwhelming number of senior citizens, who are not institutionalized have an inadequate intake of specific nutrients, as recommended by the 1980 Daily Dietary Allowances. For many, the fact that they are not "eating properly" is balanced, in their minds, by taking vitamins and other supplements whose products are heavily advertised on TV, radio, and in publications such as that of the AARP. Perhaps there is no more important aspect of providing proper nutrition for the elderly in the coming years than being able to realize that a "quick fix" like taking vitamin or supplements does not replace proper nutrition. "The first line of attack for many problems is already diet-centered…Despite all the breakthroughs in nutritional research, deciding what and how to eat can still be enormously ..."
Abstract This paper investigates the abuse of the frail elderly by family care givers. The objectives of the proposed research study were to gain insights into factors implicated in the development and perpetuation of such abuse, identify those causal factors that may be amenable to intervention, and recommend policies and programs, where applicable, to reduce the incidence of such abuse.
From the Paper "The increasing awareness that some elderly persons are physically abused and neglected by family members has been accompanied by a widespread assumption about elder abuse: that it is inflicted by well meaning individuals, often the adult children of victims, who are pushed over the edge by the stress of caring for a frail, dependent old person. According to Pillemer & Finkelhor (1989), the falsity of that assumption was revealed by findings that relatively well-functioning elderly people were found to usually be the victims of abuse, which is often inflicted by emotionally disturbed or violent family members. A typical abuser was found to be a person who depends on the victim for money, transportation, housing and household repairs. Elderly victims were no more disabled or dependent on their abusers than were comparison subjects on their relatives. Abusers, however, were much more likely than relatives in the comparison group to have been arrested, hospitalized for a psychiatric disorder, involved in violent behavior outside the family, or limited by a physical problem (Pillemer & Finkelhor, 1989). The generalizations of these findings has been challenged by more recent studies (Saad, Hartman, Kurian, Graham, Wilcock, & Ballard, 1995)."
Abstract In the case of the managed care systems, which seek to accept certain candidates for their facilities, it is clear that money and disability of the older patient is a bar to entrance. This is major problem in the world of health care and this paper will help to see other methodologies and motivations to help bring the older patient back to the family structure or otherwise called: home care. The aim of this paper will be to understand the possibilities and to educate on the proposition of home care for the elderly in today's world.
Abstract Covers stress and financial hardship. Focuses on the "sandwich generation, " which refers to adults, mainly women, caring for both the elderly of their family and their own children. Discusses helping elders with tasks and the activities of daily living.
From the Paper "According to the United States Bureau of the Census, as of 1995 there were at least 54 million people who were 55 years old or older and 33.5 million of those were over 65 years old (Mathur & Moschis, 1999). According to the National Alliance for ..."
Abstract This paper covers a broad range of areas pertaining to Alzheimer's disease (AD), a devastating disease that ravages the brain, robs the sufferer of their identity and eventually causes death. It looks at how AD is not an inevitable part of aging or an acceleration of aging and how it is a disease belonging to a category of diseases known as dementias, which cause a severe deterioration of several mental functions such as judgement, language and memory. It explores different areas from its neurochemistry, anatomy and neurophysiology, to the alarming statistics, the psychology and observable behavioral changes in all stages of this disease. It also discusses causes, current treatments, and treatments under investigation.
From the Paper "The first symptoms of AD occur at a microscopic level which affects many areas of the brain and may begin as early as the 20?s. Initially, subtle symptoms arise such as forgetfulness and mood change (Jones, 1999). This is due to nerve cell death in the limbic system which undergoes the most severe degenerative changes in AD. The entorhinal cortex is affected earliest and most severely, and shows the clearest evidence of cell loss. This structure is the major relay through which information from the neocortex gets to the hippocampus and back to the neocortex, and it is this degeneration that is thought to cause initial memory loss in AD (Kolb & Whishaw, 1996). Short-term memory is made worse as the hippocampus is gradually ridden with plaques and tangles. Sadly, even long-term memories fade away."
Abstract This paper looks at how depression continues to be one of most common medical conditions for the elderly. It also examines the increase in the suicidal tendencies of the depressed, taking into account the wrong assumption that aging necessitates depression and the difficulty of health care providers in recognizing depression. It examines how symptoms may take months to worsen and show up and how aging individuals should be treated similarly to younger patients when seen by the doctor. It is up to family and health care providers to be vigilant and notice changes, and with care, individuals can be helped.
From the Paper "How can such high numbers of incidence be decreased? Is there a way for healthcare providers and social workers to recognize which individuals will take such drastic measures and intervene before it is too late? Unfortunately, this appears easier said than done, since detection problems contribute to these statistics (Evans 2000, p.1). Studies show that the elderly do not easily talk to others about their depression and concerns due to the stigma of getting psychiatric care. They will visit their primary-care physicians, but do not mention that they are suffering any depressive symptoms such as feeling helpless, no longer enjoying friends and family, memory loss, sleeping difficulty, anxiety and extreme lack of energy. In fact, adds Evans (ibid, pg. 3) ?it has been estimated that approximately 80 percent of the elderly who commit suicide have visited a doctor within a month prior to their death. All too often, the signals that an older person is depressed are confused with signs of aging.?"
Abstract This paper presents a critique of the movie, "Grumpy Old Men," directed by Donald Petrie. The paper takes a look at the main characters in their roles as children, teens, adults, and elders. The paper examines the engagement theory and the continuity theory using the main characters as examples. The role of seniors in America is described through this movie.
From the Paper "At the beginning of the movie, John and Max are practicing the disengagement theory of life for elders (Hiller pg. 69, 70 textbook). Both are shown as grumpy old hermits. The bait seller Chuck and Ariel practice the activity theory (Hiller pg. 67, 68 textbook). Ariel kind of drags Max and John into the activity theory way of life and makes them remember feeling they had when they were young. This feeling and desire shows their need for intimacy and romantic love (Hiller pg 124, 111 textbook). It is shown by the way John and Max got ready for a date with Ariel. The movie illustrated the fact that desire for love does not go away with age (Hiller pg 124, 111 textbook). It made me think of my first date using dad's aftershave and feeling joy and fear all at one time. I think John and Max showed this first date theme very well in the movie."
This paper discusses the need to examine the physical and psychological health of drivers over the age of sixty-five to ensure their and other person's safety.
1,370 words (approx. 5.5 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 45.95
Abstract This paper explains that vision impairment increases with age; therefore, the eyesight of senior citizens over the age of sixty-five should be tested. The author points out that reflexes, range of motion, overall physical health and potential problems from prescription medication must be evaluated. The paper relates that memory loss, disorientation, confusion and ability to react to unexpected situations difficulties also should be tested.
From the Paper "As many as four million Americans are afflicted with Alzheimer's disease and some of them do not know it (or do not want to admit it). Many refuse to accept the fact that we are getting older, but not being responsible and admitting that it may not be safe to drive a vehicle should not be an option. Testing a person's mental capability would eliminate the possibilities of an absent-minded person at the wheel. Overall, one can see that mental awareness plays a key factor in proving whether senior citizens over the age of sixty-five should be tested in their ability to operate a motor vehicle."
Abstract In this paper, the writer describes the causes and effects of substance abuse in the elderly. The writer discusses why this problem is being overlooked in today's society. Further, the writer mentions the most common forms of substance abuse, as well as problems with prescription medications and proper diagnoses. The writer argues that if people learn to recognize and tend to the warning signs of substance abuse, there will be more of a demand for better treatment programs and more options will be available for older individuals. The writer concludes that there should be more awareness about the warning signs of drug abuse or misuse, because it is something that will eventually affect everyone's life at some point.
From the Paper "Though it may be an invisible epidemic, substance abuse among the elderly (adults age 60 and over) is one of the fastest growing health problems facing the nation today. When many people think about substance abuse they immediately think of the younger generation. In reality, though, the elderly population also faces this problem, only in a slightly different way. Instead of abusing drugs such as heroin or cocaine, the elderly are more likely to abuse alcohol and prescription drugs or medications. Though the number of elderly people suffering with these disorders is rising, they remain undiagnosed, under treated, and misrepresented in society. Due to insufficient knowledge and limited research data, health care professionals often overlook or misdiagnose substance abuse in older individuals. If these substance abuse disorders remain untreated and undiagnosed, the last stage of life for countless people may be ruined. For these reasons, substance abuse among the elderly is a topic worth investigating."
Abstract This paper reviews the writer's personal philosophy of care and individual ethics in a case scenario of a patient (referred to as Mr. Smith) with advanced Alzheimer's and dementia. The writer discusses how the family often appeared indifferent and unconcerned with their father's condition especially at his untimely demise, which proved difficult for the nursing staff as they cared profoundly for the patient. The writer explores the specific ethical principles involved, including autonomy, justice, beneficence, and nonmaleficence and links the clinical situation to a specific theory of grief, loss and bereavement. The writer suggests alternative actions which could have led to a more satisfying and ethical outcome in the case of Mr. Smith, his family and the nurses concerned.
Outline:
Introduction
My Philosophy of Care in my Nursing Practice
Autonomy, Justice, Beneficence and Nonmaleficence
Related Theory of Grief, Loss, and Bereavement
Suggested Alternative Solutions
Conclusion
From the Paper "Ethics in healthcare is fundamental in the day-to-day care provided to patients' particularly in nursing and certainly with end of life issues. Essentially, the code of ethics for registered nurses is a declaration of commitment to those we serve, it is a guideline that sets out behaviors expected of us, and it advocates for quality care and serves as a self-reflection tool (Canadian Nurses Association, 1998). The codes of ethics and the standards of care made available by our governing body ensure that the best nursing practices will be provided to our patients (Aiken, 2005). Part of our nursing practice is to assist in life-threatening situations. Coping with death is challenging for nurses since the ability to cope with one's own grief or beliefs highly depends on the relationship of the healthcare provider to the patient, to their families and to their own experiences with death."
Abstract This paper provides the reader with an understanding of the problems and concerns with communicating with the elderly. The writer interviews four elderly individuals and refers to several journal articles to detail the various communication issues that can arise when it comes to the elderly population. The author argues that advanced communication systems makes it harder to communicate with the elderly.
From the Paper "Communication is the very foundation of our daily lives. We communicate our wants and desires as well as the things that we are doing to handle other people's wants and desires. It is also the way we get things done. If we were to suddenly lose the ability to communicate then we would be at a severe disadvantage in life. This very problem can occur in the elderly population based on the changes that they face when they reach their golden years. There is not only a communication gap because of the differences in lifestyles and eras than when they were young, but there are also health considerations that can affect the ability to effectively communicate. Many senior citizens find themselves becoming increasingly frustrated in their attempts to communicate with the world and as a result of that frustration they withdraw and become reclusive. This can cause them to deteriorate faster because of the lack of human contact, therefore communication in the world of the elderly is an essential skill and one that must be adjusted to adapt to their new place in the time line of life."
Abstract The paper defines Alzheimer's Disease as the most common form of dementia, or brain disorder, that affects older people and affects their ability to communicate and act rationally. The paper covers many issues relating to the disease including its discovery, causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. Finally, it covers the issue of families living with AD sufferers and the difficulty involved.
From the Paper "Talking to patients about their roles in life and activities helps patients to maintain their self-identity and enhances the quality of life. The roles that family caregivers accept can be overwhelming. They must help the patient with personal hygiene, dressing and housekeeping. In addition, it is important to ensure mental and physical stimulation by ensuring that they have social and physical activities. The overburdened caregiver is susceptible to stress, resentful feeling and psychological problems. It is usually a good idea to seek assistance in providing care and to join support groups. (Hamdy, Mace)"
Tags: memory, neurofibrillary, tangles, apolipoprotein, E, Neuropsychological, NSAID
Abstract This paper discusses the problem of an increase of alcohol abuse among the over 65 segment of the population. The problems in identifying alcohol abuse in this group, as well as the consequences of the abuse are presented. The causes of abuse specific to the elderly population are explored.
From the Paper "Substance abuse, especially that of alcohol and prescription drugs, is increasingly growing into a serious problem among the population segment of 65 plus citizens. What is of grave concern is the fact that this particular segment of the population is the fastest growing. Census estimates predict that 1994's older adult population of 33 million will more than double to 80 million by 2050. Also consider the fact that several studies have found a clear relationship between early alcohol habits and the development of alcohol abuse later in life. Given that the use of alcohol has been more widespread since the 1960s, it is likely that the future will see a far larger incidence of alcohol abuse among the elderly with the ageing of the baby boomers (those born between 1946 and 1964)."
