Geriatrics NCM 114

Geriatrics and Gerontology

• Geriatrics is a medical specialty centered on the physiology of aging, focusing on diagnosing and treating age-related diseases.
• Gerontology, derived from Greek, encompasses the comprehensive study of aging, including clinical, psychological, economic, and sociological aspects affecting older adults and society.

Ageism

• Ageism refers to the prejudice or discrimination against older adults, often arising from biases about aging such as perceptions of being unattractive, unintelligent, or unproductive.
• This attitude creates a divide, allowing younger generations to see older adults as having lesser value.

Gerontological Nursing

• Involves advocating for older adults' health across all prevention levels.
• Addresses the needs of all older individuals from the onset of old age until death.

Historical Views of Older Adults

• Different cultures have perceived aging uniquely:
  • The U.S. values the contributions of older generations in building the nation.
  • Ancient Chinese traditions revered aging, regarding it as an achievement deserving honor.
  • Early Egyptians feared aging, while philosophers like Plato saw older adults as suitable leaders, contrasting with Aristotle, who excluded them from governance.

Age Groups

• Defined age categories for older adults include:
  • Young Old: Age 65 - 74
  • Middle Old: Age 75 - 84
  • Old Old: Age 85 and above

Aging as a Development Process

• Erik Erikson outlines psychosocial stages including Generativity vs. Stagnation and Integrity vs. Despair.
• Gene Cohen’s model introduces four phases of maturity, highlighting the evolving cognitive and emotional capacities during later life.

Stages of Aging

• Independence: Majority live independently, managing daily needs though some minor declines may occur.
• Interdependence: Increased difficulty with daily tasks may arise, often necessitating caregiver assistance.
• Dependency: Noticeable challenges in activities of daily living (ADLs) with possible health facility support required.
• Crisis Management & End of Life: Intensive monitoring and access to health care services, including hospice care.

Global Aging Trends

• By 2050, the global population aged over 60 will reach 2.1 billion, with 80% living in low- to middle-income countries.
• The number of individuals over 80 is projected to triple from 2020 to 2050, reaching 426 million.

Contributing Factors to Aging Population

• Rising Life Expectancy due to improved healthcare and sanitation.
• Declining fertility rates influenced by changing societal values and acceptance of birth control.

Baby Boomers

• Entering senior years between 2008 and 2030; characterized by low birth rates and high education levels.
• Tend to have higher household incomes, often due to dual-income families, and are more technologically savvy.
• Known for prioritizing fitness and will seek high-quality, innovative health care options as retirees, expecting modern amenities in long-term care facilities.

WHO Response

• The UN declared 2021-2030 as the Decade of Healthy Ageing, aiming to engage various sectors in improving lives for older adults through better health systems and community support.
• Focus areas include altering perceptions of aging, fostering environments that utilize older individuals' capabilities, and ensuring access to integrated health services and quality long-term care.