The older adult as it pertain to nursing.
...g to retirement and reduced income- retirement brings a change in a person’s concept of time. An older adult must learn to occupy leisure time in a way that maintains self esteem and is personally satisfying. Retirement is considered the hallmark of old age. Older adults manage on smaller incomes after retirement. Lack of finances can affect an older adult’s ability to meet all needs, from adequate medical care and housing to social and creative interests. 3. Adjusting to the changes in the health of one’s spouse or death or spouse or family member or significant other- when one’s spouse becomes ill or dies, numerous adjustments must be made. There would have to be changes, the need for love and belonging does not decrease with age and may become acute with the loss of a loved one. Like younger adults older adults need to express intimacy, be physically touched, and share emotions of joys, sorrow, ideas and values 4. Adjusting to living arraignments that differ from those to which they have been accustomed-the ability for an older adult to function safely and independently at home depends a great deal on functional health, transport, income and family. An older adult may need assistance with home repairs, housecleaning, or grocery shopping. Architectural barriers, such as steps need to be modified. Easy access to medical and recreational facilities and churches may become more important. 5. Adjusting to the pleasures that accompany aging- social roles changes with the developmental task and adjustments of older adults; but the need to feel valued, useful and productive remains the same. An older adult may develop new hobbies or increase involvement in community church or family affairs. He/she may do volunteer work or even venture into a new career. If the older adult has problems adjusting social isolation can become a problem. Social isolation is a sense of being alone and lonely because of fewer meaningful relationships. 6. Establishing an explicit affiliation with one’s age/group- with an aging population, social organizations for older adults are becoming more numerous, for example, most communities have senior citizens centers that offer meals, social and informational programs and other activities for a minimal fee. How we as nurses can use the psychological theories to aid in our care of the elderly. Havinghurst have identified several changes that the older adult undergoes psychologically. “The developmental task” according to Havighurst is associated with “later maturity”. This theory can help the nurse to identify and implement a holistic plan of care when interacting with the client. Each individual is different and therefore when assessment is made it should be based on individual behavior. The theories explain human responses that are ...