9: Psychosocial Recording

Life Course Framework

• Health shaped by earlier life exposures to biological, psychosocial, and environmental factors.

• Development starts before birth, influenced by maternal health.

• Social determinants: education, environment, and relationships impact health trajectories.

• Key Points:

  • Health as a cumulative process over a lifetime.

  • Early life exposures affect aging and health in older age.

  • Consider historical contexts (e.g., effects of WW2, climate change).

Biopsychosocial Model

• Integrates biological, psychological, and social factors influencing health.

• Biological Factors:

  • Genetic makeup, illnesses, resilience to stress.

• Psychological Factors:

  • Mental health, stress levels, coping mechanisms.

• Social Factors:

  • Family dynamics, cultural influences, socioeconomic status, social interactions.

• Health results from interactions among biology, psychology, and sociology.

Age Stereotypes and Ageism

• Definitions:

  • Age Stereotypes: Generalized beliefs about older people (e.g., frail, wise).

  • Ageism: Discrimination based on age—acting on stereotypes.

• Ageism impacts older adults' quality of life leading to premature death, poorer health outcomes, and increased social isolation.

• Campaigns addressing ageism, e.g., from the World Health Organization: Focus on changing perceptions and stigma.

Perceptions of Aging

• Society often holds negative perceptions of aging (e.g., inactivity, frailty).

• Positive traits in older adults include resilience and wisdom.

• Factors Shaping Views on Aging:

  • Influence of media, language, cultural norms, and societal expectations.

  • Example: Lack of older representation in media contributing to stereotypes.

Impact on Health Behavior

• Negative beliefs about aging influence physical activity participation.

• Misunderstanding capabilities leads to decreased exercise engagement.

• Importance of fostering positive attitudes towards aging and physical activity.

Life Transitions in Later Life

1. Change in Employment Status:

   • Retirement affects self-identity, well-being, and physical activity patterns.

   • Manual labor jobs often lead to a decline in activity post-retirement.

2. Becoming a Grandparent:

   • Can enhance social relationships and increase physical activity.

   • May also lead to new stressors if taking on caregiving responsibilities.

3. Grief and Loss:

   • Loss of loved ones or declining health can motivate physical activity or inhibit it due to emotional stress.

4. Relocation:

   • Moving to assisted living can increase social opportunities but may reduce autonomy.

Psychosocial Benefits of Physical Activity

• Engaging in activities leads to improved self-perception and cognitive function.

• Physical activity can reduce feelings of depression and anxiety by fostering social connections.

• Older adults identify with activities that contribute to their sense of self (e.g., "I am a runner").

• Exercising challenges negative stereotypes and enhances well-being and social networks.

Key Takeaways

• Exercise behavior is influenced by multifaceted life factors.

• Positive attitudes towards aging and exercise can enhance health outcomes.

• Shift in perspectives: Understanding aging beyond just biological decline, emphasizing quality of life.

• Encourage active participation in physical activities among older adults to combat ageism.