Aging Perspectives in History

Historical Perspectives on Aging

• Older adults are now viewed positively, compared to previous prejudiced views.
• In Confucian times, age correlated with respect; early Egyptians feared aging, seeking potions for youth.
• Ancient Greeks had mixed opinions: Plato admired older adults as leaders, while Aristotle excluded them from politics.
• Roman Empire typically saw the sick and aged as expendable.
• Biblical texts, such as Exodus, emphasize respect for elders.
• The Middle Ages prioritized youth, leading to conflicts between generations.
• In the 17th century, England's Poor Laws provided limited support for the elderly, which eroded during the Industrial Revolution due to lack of labor protections.

Development of Gerontological Nursing

• Gerontological nursing encompasses diverse experiences catering to the aging population.
• Increasing life expectancy means nurses will frequently care for older adults in their careers.
• Pioneering figures include Florence Nightingale and Doreen Norton, who focused on unique elder needs.
• Landmark events in gerontological nursing:
  • 1902: First geriatric article published in American Journal of Nursing.
  • 1950: First geriatric nursing textbook published.
  • 1966: Establishment of the first master's program at Duke University.
  • 1975: Launch of the Journal of Gerontological Nursing.
  • 1989: Certification established for Clinical Specialists in Gerontological nursing.

Understanding Gerontology and Geriatrics

• Gerontology is the study of aging; "Gero" means old age, "ology" means study.
• Categories of older adults:
  • Young old: 65-74 years
  • Middle old: 75-84 years
  • Old old: 85 years and older
• Gerontophobia, age discrimination, and ageism describe societal prejudices against older adults.
• Geriatrics focuses on medical care for the elderly, while gerontological nursing addresses nursing practice related to aging.

Demographics of Aging

• The "Graying of America" reflects a global aging phenomenon.
• By 2025, older adults (65+) will constitute 19% of the U.S. population.
• In 2005, 13% of the U.S. population was over age 60; projections show significant growth to nearly 50 million by 2050.
• Developing countries face rapid aging, struggling with inadequate healthcare systems.

Factors Influencing Aging

• Modern older adults demand quality long-term care, including technology access and fitness amenities.
• Life expectancy in the U.S.: 75.7 years; potential maximum lifespan: 115 years.
• Notable life expectancy influencers: sanitation, medical advances, and preventive health services.
• Centenarians often have fewer chronic conditions and medications.

Feminization of Later Life

• Women represent 55% of the older population and have a longer average life expectancy (81 years) than men (75.2 years).
• Gender differences in life expectancy linked to male risk factor exposure.

Chronic Conditions and Health Trends

• 80% of seniors report at least one chronic condition.
• Heart disease and cancer account for the majority of deaths among those 65+.
• A decline in mortality rates due to improved healthcare and early disease detection.

Aging Population in the Philippines

• Rapid growth of the elderly population from 4.6 million in 2000 to an expected 23.6 million by 2050.
• Common health issues include infections, visual impairment, arthritis, and incontinence.
• Average life expectancy in the Philippines: 66 years for males, 73 years for females.

Psychosocial Theories of Aging

• Psychosocial theories discuss behavioral and personality changes in aging.
• Activity Theory posits that engagement is crucial for satisfaction in later life.
• Disengagement Theory suggests that gradual withdrawal helps maintain social balance and encourages reflection.