Aging Theories, Development, and Health in Middle and Older Adults

Which theory of aging focuses primarily on cell metabolism and function?

Free radical theory

What is a developmental task of the middle adult?

Continue an established lifestyle or reorganize one's life in a period of transition

What is the psychosocial development stage characterized by generativity versus stagnation?

Freud's theory

What are common health problems in middle adulthood?

Malignant neoplasms, cardiovascular disease, injury, depression, diabetes mellitus, chronic lower respiratory disease, cerebrovascular causes, liver and/or kidney disease, obesity, alcoholism, arthritis

True or False: Both acute and chronic illnesses are more likely to occur in middle adulthood, and recovery takes longer.

True

What factors contribute to variation in life expectancy in older adulthood?

Socioeconomic and race/ethnicity factors, behavioral and metabolic risk factors, health care factors

True or False: Fundamental to ageism is the view that older people are the same as younger people.

False

What are the physiologic changes of older adults?

Changes in integumentary, musculoskeletal, neurologic, special senses, cardiopulmonary, gastrointestinal systems, dentition, and genitourinary system

What cognitive changes occur in older adulthood?

Intelligence increases into the 60's, mild short-term memory loss is common, long-term memory usually remains intact

What is the disengagement theory in psychosocial development of older adults?

An older adult may substitute activities but does disengage from society

What are common causes of accidental injuries in older adults?

Changes in vision and hearing, loss of muscle mass and strength, slower reflexes, decreased sensory ability, economic factors

What is the prevalence of elder abuse among older adults in the U.S.?

Experienced by 1 in 10 community-dwelling older adults ages 60 years and older

What does the SPICES assessment tool stand for?

Sleep disorders, problems with eating or feeding, incontinence, confusion, evidence of falls, skin breakdown

What nursing actions promote health in older adults?

Physiologic function, cognitive function, psychosocial needs, nutrition, sleep and rest, elimination, activity and exercise, sexuality

What moral and spiritual development changes occur in older adults?

Many adults demonstrate conjunctive faith and trust in a greater power, self-transcendence is characteristic of later life

What is the role of the nurse in the health of the middle adult?

Health-related screenings, teaching dangers of substance use, diet, and exercise

What is the Genetic Theory of aging?

It suggests a finite amount of cell division is possible.

What does Immunosenescence refer to?

It is a theory related to aging and the immune system.

What are Stochastic Theories of aging?

They describe aging as a result of random damage over time, often referred to as 'Wear and Tear.'

What age range defines Young Adulthood?

18-39 years.

What are common health risks for Young Adults?

Accidents, suicide, hypertension, substance abuse, STIs, abuse, malignancies.

What age range defines Middle Adulthood?

40-65 years.

What are common health risks for Middle Adults?

Accidents, cancer, cardiovascular issues, obesity, alcoholism, mental health issues.

What physical changes occur in Middle Adults?

Redistribution of fatty tissue, drier skin, wrinkles, gray hair, decreased cardiac output, loss of muscle mass, and diminished visual and hearing acuity.

What is a significant psychosocial change for Older Adults?

Coping with loss and death.

What are common physical changes in Older Adults?

Fragile skin, muscle weakness, impaired balance, visual and hearing changes, and decreased kidney function.

What are the gastrointestinal changes in Older Adults?

Decreased digestive enzymes, nutrient absorption, intestinal activity, and dental issues.

What are the urinary changes in Older Adults?

Decreased kidney filtration, bladder capacity, and issues with complete bladder emptying.

What are some psychosocial changes in Older Adults?

Economic changes, self-actualization, grandparenting, relocation, and facing death.

What is the role of nursing management for Older Clients?

To protect from injury by addressing skin, neuromuscular, sensory, pulmonary, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, urinary, and genital issues.

What are common care settings for older adults?

Acute care, long-term care, hospice, rehabilitation, and community.

What issues are prevalent in the aging population?

Chronic illness, polypharmacy, accidents, dementia, delirium, depression, and elder abuse.

What is the importance of understanding aging in nursing practice?

It allows nurses to provide sensitive care and anticipate reactions or needs.

What does 'one size does not fit all' mean in aging?

It indicates that people age differently and develop at their own pace.