Question

Module 09 Written Assignment - The Effects of Aging It becomes very challenging on an individual as the aging process begins. Although many indivi comfortably and remain active throughout the life span others may experience the effects of me cognitive disorders, psychological and spiritual issues. As health care workers it is important to k expect and how to help individuals to take steps to counterbalance the effects of aging to mainta independence as possible. The following are all issues that the aging adult may deal with Describe what your job is as a nurse to help these individuals with their challenges. Your answers following prompts should be at least 2-3 paragraphs in length and should be contained within a si document • Remaining independent • Maintaining self-esteem • Finding outlets for energies and interests • Developing a happy lifestyle with financial means . Continuing positive relationships with others • Meeting all basic human needs • Confronting morality

Answer 1

Ageing

Ageing is the process of becoming older. Old age is the latter part of life, the part of life after one's prime. It is a period when people " move away " from previous, more desirable periods ( times of usefulness). There many challenging issues that have to be faced by the elderly people or old age people.  

Nursing interventions during the following Challenges, faced by old age people:

1. Remaining independent

Independence is the freedom from dependence. Mild to severe disability sets in because of factors like impaired mobility and sensory perceptions. Unemployment, loss of spouse financial constraints, separation from children, changes in life style and absence of reliable care giver all contribute to the increase in dependence of old age.

Nurse can promote the elderly to be independent in their activities as much as they can. A senior person can lead a better quality life , if he is independent in daily activities atleast. A nurse can assist or aid the elderly to participate in activities. Studies show that elderly people are more comfortable and independent at home environment. So encourage the children and family members to keep the elderly people at home and provide home nursing services. Give health education to elderly patients and family members regarding self care, medications and other activities. Keep the articles, that are used by the patient frequently, within the reach, Tub and bath rooms are should be installed with hand rails. Engaging elderly , physically, mentally and socially help them to be independent.

2. Maintaining self esteem

Self esteem refers to the sense of self worth and self respect. As some one gets older, his self esteem may decline.

A nurse can help the elderly by increasing their self esteem through:

* Be compassionate and treat them with dignity, even if they have some limitations

* Help them to be independent makes them feel more worthy. ( As mentioned above)

* Do discussions about current events and listen to what they are telling.

* Encourage the children and family members to ask advices in various things . ' Being help full ' makes them more self confident and happy.

* Reassure them that their disabilities are nomal for the age and everyone is having their own limitations .

3. Finding outlets for energies and interests

A number activities can be provided for elderly to let out their energy such as reading ( immobile person), cooking, baking, bird watching, new language learning or a musical instrument, indoor and outdoor gardening etc. Makes them creative by providing facilities for painting and drawing also for games and puzzles, movies etc.

4. Developing a happy lifestyle with financial means

Three ' A ' s can increase the happiness in old age ; they are Acceptance, Achievement and affection. An elderly person will be happy, when they use their free time constructively and where there is financial securty. Participating in charitable work may make them feel worth and happy.

Help the senior person to do the formalities for retirement savings account and plans. Teach them about the financial assistance and types of personal finance options . A senior can get income through number of investments such as purchasing bonds and mutual funds etc.

5. Continuing positive relationship with others

Help the elderly for continuing the positive relationship with others, friends and family members. Encourage visitors and spending time with elderly. Encourage family members to visit the senior person frequently and spend time with them. Tell them to be compassionate with others. Encourage the elderly to maintain friendships and communicate with friends and other senior people. Friends can understand and encourage one  another .

6. Meeting basic human needs

Basic human needs are physiological needs and safety needs. A nurse must ensure that the patient is getting oxygen ( breathing properly and oxygen saturation ), food ( help to get rid of vomiting, swallowing difficulties), water and fluids ( prevent them from dehydration). Assist them in their eliminatory needs, especially when they have a difficult related to elimination such as urinary incontinence and retention, diarrhoea or constipation . Ensure proper sleep and rest for the elderly.

Provide a comfortable and safety environment for the elderly person. Environment should be free from all the hazardous materials, slippery floors etc.

7. Confronting mortality

Makes them aware about reality. Tell them death is inevitable and help the to view death as a friend. Assist their spiritual needs and tell them to be prepared to face the death any time.