older adult (elderly).
By 2050, one in five Americans will be over the age of 65.
The concept of aging is further defined as young-old (65 to 74)
... [Show More] , middle-old (75 to 84),
old-old (over 85), elite-old (over 90), centenarian (over 100), and super-centenarian (110
and over).
Eighty percent of people over the age of 70 have at least one chronic condition, and 50%
have multiple health problems.
Theories of Aging
1. Psychosocial Theories:
a. Disengagement Theory: Progressive social disengagement occurs naturally with
aging and is accepted by the older adult. Variation in disengagement across older
populations is related to cultural style and behaviors in different geographic regions.
b. Activity Theory: Successful again requires a high level of activity and involvement to
maintain life satisfaction and positive self – esteem.
2. Biologic Theories:
a. Pacemaker Theory: A programmed decline or cessation of many concepts occurs in
the nervous and endocrine systems.
b. Immunity Theory: A programmed accumulation of damage and decline of the
immune systems’ function (immunosenescence) takes place due to oxidative stress.
c. Wear-and-Tear Theory: After repeated use, damaged cells in the body structures wear
out from the harmful effects of internal and external stressors, now known as free
radicals.
HESI Hint
The concept of aging is shifting from viewing older adults as frail and dependent to being
able to engage in healthy living. The majority of those aged 65 and older regard their
health as good or excellent. The ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) is a more
accurate measure of an older person’s age than chronologic age.
3. Developmental Theories:
a. Erik Erikson’s Theory: Theory identifies 8 stages of developmental tasks throughout
the life span; 8th stage is integrity versus despair
b. Maslow’s Theory: Maslow’s hierarchy of needs ranks an individual’s needs from the
most basic to the most complex. Maslow uses the terms physiologic, safety and
security, belonging, self-esteem, and self-actualization needs to describe the process
that generally motivates individuals to move through life.
Physiologic Changes
Aging effects every cell in every organ of the body, but not at the same rate
Three physiologic changes are clinically significant in making older adults vulnerable to
injury & disease:
o Loss in compensatory reserve (making up for a loss in physiological
compensation; vital signs)
o Progressive loss in efficiency of the body to repair damaged tissue
o Decreased functioning of the immune system processes
Diseases in older adults do not always present with classic signs and symptoms
Physiologic changes increase more rapidly with increasing age
Aging changes are influenced by genetic makeup & environment
HESI Hint
NCLEX-RN questions may ask about teaching and designing rehabilitation programs for
older adults. The answers should contain information about exercis..... [Show Less]