Chapter 23: Aging Adults

Changes During Aging:
- Aging occurs at different rates among individuals, even within the same family or environment.
- Physical changes impact cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems.
Factors Influencing Aging:
- Internal processes
- Nutrition
- Environmental factors

Genetic Theory:
- Suggests that genes control what is referred to as a "genetic clock."
- Certain aging processes may be slowed by lifestyle choices, but many aspects are inherent to genetics.
Immunological Theory:
- Focuses on the immune system's function and how it can be maintained to promote healthy aging.
Cross-Linkage Theory:
- Explains that chemical reactions can cause damage to DNA, resulting in cell death.
Free Radical Theory:
- Concerns free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause cell damage.
- Suggests that certain foods and antioxidants may help mitigate damage from free radicals.
WHIP Theory:
- Focuses on cell metabolism and function, particularly related to oxidative stress from free radicals.

Age Range:
- Defined as ages 40 to 65.
Physiological Changes:
- Gradual changes, both internal and external.
Cognitive Changes:
- Generally little change from young adulthood; potential decline due to diseases like Alzheimer's.
Psychosocial Changes:
- Increased personal freedom, economic stability, and changes in social relationships.

Adjust to Physical Changes:
- Acknowledge and cope with changes in physical appearance and health.
Occupational Satisfaction:
- Maintain or adjust job roles; may include changing careers.
Raising Responsible Adults:
- Assist children in becoming independent.
Caring for Aging Parents:
- Acknowledge and adapt to responsibilities toward older parents.
Revitalizing Relationships:
- Re-focus relationships with partners as children become independent.

Common Health Issues:
- Malignant Neoplasms: Cancer.
- Cardiovascular Disease: Heart-related conditions.
- Unintentional Injuries: Including falls, motor vehicle accidents, and poisoning.
- Diabetes: Chronic conditions and metabolic disorders.
- Chronic Lower Respiratory Disease: Including conditions like COPD.
- Stroke: Cerebrovascular accidents.
Health Problems:
- Common issues include rheumatoid arthritis, obesity (due to slowed metabolism), alcoholism, and depression.

Education:
- Teach about the dangers of substance abuse, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption.
- Promote a diet low in fat and cholesterol.
- Encourage regular exercise, emphasizing benefits irrespective of prior lifestyle choices.
Health Screenings:
- Recommended health exams and immunizations include monitoring various diseases relevant to age group.

Employment Shift:
- Potential job loss or career changes, often faced by individuals over 50 due to economic downturns.
Relationship Dynamics:
- Shifts in spousal relationships due to changes in common interests or empty-nest syndrome.
Relationships with Adult Children:
- Transition into grandparent roles; managing evolving dynamics with adult children.
Caring for Aging Parents:
- Possible shift to caregiving roles for elderly parents, requiring adjustments in family dynamics.
Midlife Transition:
- A common experience of reevaluation of life choices and desires, often leading to significant lifestyle changes.

Physiological Decline:
- General decline in organ efficiency; aging impacts all body systems.
Cognitive Function:
- Minor cognitive changes; capability for learning remains intact, but responses may take longer.
Psychosocial Aspects:
- Stability in self-concept; may disengage from some societal roles as relationships change.

The idea that older adults may withdraw from societal roles but may substitute with other engaging activities.

Focuses on the adult's life review, assessing satisfaction with life and contributions before death.

Ageism: A stereotype that all older individuals share the same desires, needs, and concerns.
- Inaccuracy of myths regarding older adults, including misconceptions about their health, contentment, and desires.

Physical health issues: Commonly observe slower reflexes, changes in strength and health.

Dementia: Chronic, progressive cognitive impairment affecting memory, reasoning.
Alzheimer's Disease: Most prevalent degenerative neurological disorder, progressing without cure.
Sundowning Syndrome: Increased confusion and agitation during evening hours.
Cascade Iatrogenesis: A sequence of adverse effects resulting from medical treatment, illustrating the need for cautious intervention in older adults.

Promote independence while maximizing functional capabilities.
Manage and prevent complications from illnesses; provide safe environments that support patient health.

Statistics indicate that approximately 10% of adults aged 60 or older living in communities experience abuse.
Forms of elder abuse include physical, sexual, psychological, financial exploitation, and neglect.

Enhances physical strength, mood, mental health, and general well-being.
Encourages engagement in activities outside the home and fosters personal growth through learning and community involvement.

Home Modifications: For aging in place, including handrails and accessible bathroom features.
Home Sharing: Collaborative living arrangements among peers to reduce isolation.
Accessory Apartments: Semi-independent living arrangements near family.
Retirement Communities: Structured living environments designed for older adults.
Assisted Living & Nursing Facilities: Providing varying levels of support for daily activities and healthcare needs.