Introduction to Geriatric Nursing: Historical Perspective on the Study of Aging

Flashcards about Introduction to Geriatric Nursing: Historical Perspective on the Study of Aging. These flashcards cover key terms, concepts, and definitions discussed in the lecture notes.

Prior to the mid-19th century, how many stages of human growth were identified?

Two: childhood and adulthood.

What societal shift led to recognizing distinct stages within childhood?

The recognition of significant differences between children of different ages and their changing needs as they develop.

Why did society initially pay little attention to the differences between adults of different ages?

Few people lived to old age, and the physical and developmental changes of adulthood are more subtle than those of childhood.

Until the 1960s, what age group did sociologists, psychologists, and healthcare providers primarily focus on?

People between 20 and 65 years of age, considered the typical or average adult.

What factors contributed to the shift in healthcare focus from illness to wellness in the late 1960s regarding older adults?

Increased medical knowledge, improved preventive health practices, and technological advances.

Geriatrics

The medical specialty that deals with the physiology of aging and with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting older adults.

Gerontology

The study of all aspects of the aging process, including the clinical, psychologic, economic, and sociologic problems of older adults and the consequences of these problems for older adults and society.

Gerontics (Gerontic Nursing)

The nursing care and service provided to older adults, comprising a holistic view of aging, with the goal of increasing health, providing comfort, and caring for older adults' needs.

Give three of the objectives discussed in this chapter.

Examine trends and issues that affect the older adult's ability to remain healthy, Explore theories and myths of aging, or Study the normal changes that occur with aging.

Why is chronologic age not the most meaningful measurement of aging?

Because people age differently; some remain functionally and physiologically young despite their age, while others are chronologically young but physically or functionally old.

What historical event led to 65 becoming the accepted age for retirement?

The establishment of the Social Security program in the 1930s, although life expectancy at the time was 63.

For individuals born in 1960 or later, at what age do they qualify for full Social Security benefits?

Age 67.