Discusses the physical and psychological adaptations required for the well-being of elderly. Examines diet, exercise, medication, alcohol and depression.
2,250 words (approx. 9 pages), 13 sources, 1995, $ 79.95
From the Paper "THE PROCESS OF AGING: ADJUSTMENTS REQUIRED
TO ASSURE CONTINUED WELL-BEING
Introduction
This research examines the process of aging. The focus of this examination is on the life adjustments required by individuals as they age in order to assure or at least enhance the probability of continued well-being.
The Aging Process
All life-stage theories of human development are concerned with the aging process (Heikkinen, 1993, pp. 269-277). Within this context, three types of aging are involved. Biological aging refers to the manner in which the body functions over time, while psychological aging involves the individual's perceptions of the aging process, and social aging reflects the ways ..."
Abstract This paper examines the necessity of balancing work life and striving toward harmony between the body, mind and spirit in order to fulfil our destiny. It evaluates how people from all spectrums of life experience and need to have stimulated: intellectual health, physical health, spiritual health, social health and emotional health, all of which are unifying human factors that bring us all closer together and force us to be who we are. It looks at some of these factors and shows how a healthy lifestyle leads to happiness, longevity and freedom from disease.
From the Paper "Our lives are, at best, a confusing mess of change, reaction, need, elation, excitement, and every other emotional shift and experience we can imagine. Some lives are relatively stable, others ride rollercoasters so large they make participants in the X-Games seem like they?re jumping rope. There are things, however, that people from both spectrums of life experience and need to have stimulated: intellectual health, physical health, spiritual health, social health, and emotional health. These are unifying human factors that bring us all closer together and force us to be who we are. All of us, regardless of how apathetic, engage in activities that on one level or another satisfy the needs in these arenas."
Abstract This paper presents an examination of psychotherapy with elderly patients in nursing homes. The writer explores the issues of confidentiality, cognitive understanding and the benefits of therapy for the elderly. It asks whether this form of treatment is necessary and effective and if the age of the patients presents a barrier.
From the Paper "Advances in medical science now allow people to live longer than ever before. With the longevity however, comes a higher incidence of several things including the need for nursing home care, the need for mental health services and the need for a combination of them both. Nationwide, nursing homes are filled to and beyond capacity, which often translates to understaffing of employees. The elderly population of the United States, particularly those in nursing homes is often overlooked when it comes to mental health issues. Many times symptoms are attributed to the aging process, if they are noticed at all by a harried staff member who takes a cursory sweep through the patient's inpatient records and compares them to the patient's present state of mind. The need for psychotherapy in the elderly population has historically been ignored or overlooked. However, recent studies had attention have place a focus on the need for mental health care in the elderly, including those who reside in nursing homes."
Abstract Discusses several experiments conducted for memory training. Development of a mnemonic to reduce instances of forgetting. A computer-assisted teaching program of imagery-based mnemonic strategies. Reduction in depression & memory difficulities. Mnemonic techniques to help firms comply with California's Injury & Illness Prevention Program legislation.
From the Paper "Based on research on visual support for memory in the elderly, Sharps and Price-Sharps (1996) developed a simple mnemonic in which respondents kept a visually distinctive plastic plate in a prominent place in their homes and used it as a base for items to be recalled and for reminder notes for future activities. In one experiment, respondents were asked to record all instances of forgetting in a notebook, which was placed on their pillow so they would remember to record items each day. After one week, they were given a plate and a notepad. The plate was to be kept on the dining or kitchen table and items to be recalled, e.g. reading glasses, car keys, were placed on the plate. Things to be done were written on self-adhesive sheets from the notepad and the sheets stuck to the plate. Instances of forgetting were again tabulated for one week."
Abstract Discusses increasing number of elderly in long term care facilities. What can be done to make long term care better. Impact of cost, quality, access of Medicare and Medicaid, and new technology in nursing homes. Reasons why costs vary. What constitutes quality nursing homes. Problem of access. Alternative care.
From the Paper "Nursing Homes
Introduction
The number of elderly who are living longer is on the rise because of new methods of treatments, new medications and use of medical technology to improve their life span. On any given day, nursing homes, or as many are now called, "long-term care facilities", are caring for about one in twenty Americans over the age of 65. Almost half of all Americans turning 65 this year will be admitted into a nursing home at least once. It is projected that in 2020, 40 percent of Americans will die in nursing homes. As the numbers increase in utilization of nursing homes, there is increasing concern about cost, quality and access- concerns that need to get attention. The purpose of this research paper is to discuss what has been done in recent years and what can be done in ..."
Abstract Discusses importance of love, intimacy and sex for healthy aging. Societal views of older people regarding sexual activity. Refers to studies and surveys on sex and aging. Women as victims of ageism more than men. Need for sex education for older people. Loss of work-related relationships and other close relationships.
From the Paper "The topic of Love, Intimacy and Sexuality in the area of healthy aging is of major importance today for several relevant reasons. "A happy sex life is part of the enjoyment of good health. Enjoyable sex refreshes both the mind and body" (Gillie & Mercer, 1979, p. 158). The elderly population is increasing annually at the same time that a youth-culture mentality is flourishing. A commonly held societal view is that older people ought not, or do not want to engage in sexual activity. Studies and research data, however, indicate that there is no automatic cut-off age for sexual activity. The loss of desire and need for love and intimacy are not dependent on the calendar. While there are significant changes in the physical and psychological aspects of sex with age, in the absence of illness or psychological factors, such changes do not lessen the capacity to ..."
Abstract This disease produces a full blown dementia in its patients and affects millions of people and their families. The paper looks closely at the disease and the ways in which individuals and the medical establishment are treating it. Finally, the writer looks at the current research that is looking into fighting the debilitating effects of the disease.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
History
Symptoms
Diagnosis
Current Research
Conclusion
From the Paper "The progression of the disease is classified into three phases: forgetfulness, confusional and dementia. The forgetfulness phase is the first stage and is characterized by a loss of short term memory. Patients in the phase will often have trouble remembering names of well known people and misplace items on a regular basis. This stage also may include behavioral changes. A loss of spontaneity and social withdrawal often occur as the individual begins to be aware that there is something inherently wrong. Speech problems and difficulty with comprehension may also appear. Cleary, it is difficult to distinguish this patient from normal everyday people or people with other disorders."
Abstract This paper states that the United States will be seeing a dramatic increase in the elderly population as the "baby boomer" generation reaches retirement age. The paper explains that there is no evidence to show that the brain begins to show signs of wear in old age thus resulting in mental illness. The author concludes that the cost of medical care is a major problem for most older people.
From the Paper "Not all people age at the same rate. While living 65 years or longer may give a person a greater probability of contracting a debilitating, chronic disease, old age does not cause chronic illness. Living a great number of years just increases the probability of contracting one. It is necessary to distinguish what can be considered normal wear and tear on the body, or the natural result of aging."
Tags: social, security, managed, care, chronic, retirement
Abstract At the beginning of the millennium life expectancy doubled to approximately 80 years of age, compared to what it was in 1900. This paper studies the new field of immunogerontology that explores the immune system in the aging adult. Recent research has indicated that the immune systems of aged people undergo characteristic changes, generally in the direction of decreased immune competence. As the research presented in this paper reveals, aging affects many aspects of the immune process, and since the immune system interacts with every system of the body it becomes important to have a well-developed understanding of the mechanisms related to the breakdown of this system in the later years of life.
From the Paper "Malnutrition in aging populations is another mechanism, which contributes to the decline in the efficiency of the signal transduction system and as a result leads to the degradation of the immune response. Calcium is an integral part of the signaling mechanism and the biochemical pathways that compose it. Enzymes necessary for T cell proliferation are rendered useless in the absence of calcium as shown by Miller et al (1996). Measurements made in the lab of IL-2 production were shown to be substantially lower than in T cells belonging to younger individuals. It is important to remember that IL-2 is produced after the antigen binds to the receptor-binding site and is responsible for promoting the proliferation of the T cell. Though these experiments are mainly carried out on mice, the biochemical pathways are very similar and results tend to indicate that immunodeficiency in the aging adult is due in part to the decline in calcium concentrations. Other nutrients such as zinc and vitamin E are also important in the proper functioning of the immune system affecting cytokine production and imparting a protective role from damage by free radicals respectively (Moriguchi, 1998)."
Abstract A review of the study of the increasing average age of the population of many countries, especially among the industrialized nations. The writer believes that the aging of many nations is the force behind the growth of gerontology as an academic field of study. This paper examines recent advances in the field of gerontology, starting with a background into the theory of aging and followed by an overview of current gerontology projects, including its limitations and benefits.
From the Paper "The inherent limitations of other concepts must be recognized as well. Life span, for example, refers to the genetic limitations on the length of an organism's life. Longevity for the individual is dependent to a considerable degree on hereditary factors, as well as on individual experience. But while biology engenders numerous changes and a degree of reduction in physical capacity (which varies according to the individual) "in the absence of disease, these changes seldom reduce physical resources below the minimum needed for normal adult functioning" (Atchley, 2000, p. 90)."
Tags: elderly, population, society, genetics, social
An exploration of existing literature, including peer-review journals and professional publications, regarding the impact of aging baby boomers on future healthcare.
Abstract This paper examines how the baby boom generation, born between 1946 and 1964, is reported to be the largest generation in U.S. history. It looks at how this group is very diversified and characterized by their disease prevention and wellness values and how, as the group becomes older there are concerns for the future of healthcare. It analyzes how as the boomers become aged 85 and older, there will be a dramatic change in the numbers of elderly and needs for long-term care services. It looks at how the baby boomers were followed by a group with an exceptionally low birth rate and how as a result healthcare for the pending group of elderly boomers will be supported by a smaller population.
Outline
The Problem
Introduction
Statement of the Problem
Purpose of the Study
Importance of the Study
Scope or Delimitations of the Study
Review of the Literature
Introduction
Overview
Future of Healthcare Funding
Access to Services
Quality of Care
Summary
Conclusion
Implication of the Study
Position of the Author
From the Paper "The year 2010 will bring the time when the first baby boomers begin to turn age 65; by then one in five Americans will be over 65 (Friedman, p. 36). In 1990, the oldest baby boomers were 44 years old, and concerns for old age were upon them. Butler (1990) reports that this generation will need to take matters into their own hands if they are to end the fragmented health care system that currently exists. New alternatives need to be sought that include a single-payer approach rather than various prices for identical procedures and services, clinical autonomy and opportunity, collaboration within health-care providers, and goals that meet the needs of all Americans (p. 13). New principles need to include the whole being with its connection to the environment, empowerment which enables internal and external healing resources to be utilized, and views of all involved (Meleis, 1992, p. 117)."
A thorough study and research about the phenomenon of abuse of the elderly by family caregivers and the factors implicated in the development and perpetuation of such abuse.
Abstract This research investigates the problem of elder abuse. The research focuses on the identification of the factors underlying the problem.
In the study, both the frequency and the severity of physical and emotional abuse are found to be related positively with the level of stress perceived by caregivers, the cognitive status of the elderly person, the physical status of the elderly person, and the substance abuse status of caregivers. Both the frequency and the severity of financial abuse are also found to be related positively with the level of financial stress characterizing the caregiver-elderly person relationship.
The findings of this study that caregiver stress and substance abuse by caregivers affect the frequency and severity of physical and emotional abuse, and that financial stress affects the frequency and severity of financial abuse are consistent with current theory. The findings that the frequency and severity of elder abuse are related to both the cognitive and physical status of the elderly person for whom care is provided, however, are consistent with some current theory but also are contrary to some current theory. The study concludes that further research is recommended to explore in greater depth the relationship between elder abuse and the physical and mental status of the elderly person for who care is provided in a family environment. Further research also is recommended with respect to developing improved schemes for providing financial assistance for such caring arrangements.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Statement of the Problem
Research Questions
Purpose of the Study
Significance of the Study
Definitions of Terms
Overview of the Remainder of the Study
Review of the Literature
Cognitive Abilities and Development
Stress
Related Research
Conclusions Relative to the Study Problem
Method
Hypotheses
Variables and Operational Definitions
Population and Sample
Instrumentation
Data Analysis
Summary
Results
Results Testing Hypothesis 1
Results Testing Hypothesis 2
Results Testing Hypothesis 3
Results Testing Hypothesis 4
Results Testing Hypothesis 5
Results Testing Hypothesis 6
Results Testing Hypothesis 7
Results Testing Hypothesis 8
Results Testing Hypothesis 9
Results Testing Hypothesis 10
Discussion
Summary of the Results
Discussion and Implications for Current Theory
Recommendations for Further Research
Implications for Professional Practice
References
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 have been challenged by more recent studies (Saad, Hartman, Kurian, Graham, Wilcock, & Ballard, 1995).
Some states have passed laws for mandatory reporting of elder abuse, which means that doctors and social workers must report suspected abuse (Arbetter, 1995). Communities are encouraging neighbors to keep an eye on seniors. Some communities are considering the establishment of shelters similar to those organized for battered women. Some communities also are expanding senior day care services and support services for caregivers (Arbetter, 1995)."
Abstract This paper explores different strategies for developing a financial and retirement plan. The paper takes into account the realities of today's economy, worker career mobility and phased retirement. Tradeoffs between working longer before retirement, aggressive investing and the role real estate play in an investment portfolio will be highlighted.
Contents:
Financial Planning ? Working Toward the Future
Retirement Planning
401(k)
Traditional IRAs
Simplified Employee Pension
Savings Incentive Match Plan
Portfolios Need Real Estate
From the Paper "There are 76 million Americans who were born between the years 1946 and 1964, they are the so-called baby-boom generation. Fifty-five million Americans are age 55 and older, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau. Within that number, there are 35 million who are 65 and older, and by 2030 that amount will double to 70 million. Surprisingly the fastest-growing segment of senior citizens is of those who are 85 years old or older."
Abstract Using the example of Silver Falls Long-Term Care Facility, the paper discusses what can be done to reduce the alarming statistic for the annual turnover of nursing aides which is above 100%. The paper examines the facility and its management staff and gives an overview of the job description of a nursing aide. The paper then details some of the reasons for the high turnover percentage, including lack of mental stimulation, long hours, low pay and personal conflicts within the work-place. Finally, the paper offers solutions for this problem such as benefit packages, tuition reimbursement plans and higher wages.
From the Paper "Onsite training both helps and hurts the retention in the facility, as we are not allowed to require nursing assistants to work for us for any amount of time based on the completion of the course work. For this, reason our facility as well as the other facilities. are often seen as a first step into the industry rather than a place to continue employment. Yet, the benefits of direct training outweigh any cost associated with loss of employees. The goal is to develop the education program to such a degree that it offers real answers to the real challenge of the industry and expresses the commitment of the organization to employee retention and benefits."
Abstract Recent reports highlight how the gender gap in wages affects women's retirement as well. According to a report from the Women's Institute for a Secure Retirement (WISER), older women are twice as likely as men to be poor after retiring. Compared to their male counterparts, older women have to make do with less Social Security benefits, fewer and smaller pensions and less individual savings. This paper examines the growing fiscal health problem many women face upon retirement. Instead of having a nest egg to live upon, many women face the real possibility of poverty, even after retiring from a lifetime of hard work.
The first part of the paper presents a general picture of the fiscal resources available to and problems faced by women upon their retirement. In addition to this general picture, the paper pays special attention to the problems faced by minorities like Hispanic and African-American women. The next part of the paper looks at the factors behind these problems, such as divorce, widowhood and women's care- giving duties. The main factor behind many women's inability to save for retirement, however, remains the gender gap that continues to plague much of the working world. The third part of the paper thus explores the effects of gender on the pay scales of men and women across disparate fields, from academia to management to blue-collar operations. It also looks at how these unequal pay scales continue, despite legislation that mandates equity in pay. The fourth part of the paper examines the link between the gender gap in wages to the phenomenon of women's poverty upon retirement. It shows how pay inequity means that women work more, earn less and as a result, often have less money for their retirement. Finally, the paper looks at the steps women can take to address these issues and prepare for their retirement.
From the Paper "In a study of wage differentials across the service professions, Margaret Gibelman found that the median salary for both sexes is higher in service occupations that are predominantly male, such as construction and surveying. Conversely, the mean wages for both sexes is significantly lower in occupations where women comprise more than 75 percent of the workforce, such as nursing and receptionists (Gibelman). Gibelman's study implies that women suffer from two forms of discrimination in the service and sales industries. First is discrimination on an individual level, where women get paid less than their male counterparts for the same work. Second, there is a marked discrimination against occupations that have a large female employee base and could therefore be labeled as ?women's occupations.? It is difficult to make comparisons between occupations like cashiers, 90 percent of whom are women, and janitors, 70 percent of whom are men. However, the fact remains that even male-dominated professions that utilize unskilled labor generally still command higher median incomes."
