Widowhood in Older Adults

Paper Summary:

In this paper the writer cites different medical/psychological studies done with widowed elderly adults to discuss what the effects of widowhood are in this age group. The writer also discusses differences in gender, income, education of the sufferers and how these impact the way they handle the situation. Emphasis is put on the depression that follows elderly bereavement and the healing process. Other topics include geriatric suicide, family support, nutrition and medication management.

From the Paper:

" Many stereotypes and misconceptions exist today about the aging process, older adults and what to expect in later life. Although depression should not be considered a normal part of aging, is easy to see why it is so common in older adults. So many huge changes take place as people grow older: retirement, dependency on others, loss of physical and mental capabilities and the death of friends and family. All of these losses and adjustments can be extremely difficult to handle. These losses can greatly diminish the meaning and quality of life, therefore increasing the risk of depression. Widowhood is often the hardest and loneliest of these adjustments. Widowhood is a personal, complex issue that varies according to the widow(er) being male or female, rich or poor and according to nationality, cultural expectations, past life experiences, family and social connections, etc."

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