Nursing Implications of Aging Theories

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Questions and Answers

What is the basis of stochastic theories of aging?

Deliberate cellular repair mechanisms

Genetically programmed events causing aging

Nutrient deficiency leading to aging

Random events causing cellular damage (correct)

Which of the following theories suggests that cellular aging is triggered by the length of telomeres?

Free Radical Theory

Immunologic Theory

Wear and Tear Theory

Programmed Theory (correct)

What impact do free radicals have on aging according to the Free Radical Theory?

They enhance DNA repair mechanisms.

They rejuvenate cellular functions.

They prevent apoptosis.

They cause cellular injury by damaging membranes. (correct)

According to the Error Catastrophe Theory, what happens with aging?

DNA and RNA synthesis errors occur. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement reflects the principle of the Wear and Tear Theory?

Like machines, cells wear out over time. Signup and view all the answers

What is suggested by the Gene/Biological Clock Theory in relation to aging?

Aging follows a fixed genetic program. Signup and view all the answers

According to the Neuroendocrine Theory, what factor is linked to accelerating aging?

Diminished hormonal regulation. Signup and view all the answers

How do psychosocial theories of aging propose to explain the aging process?

In terms of behavioral and personality changes. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about aging is correct?

Age-related changes should be distinguished from pathological changes. Signup and view all the answers

What is one way a gerontological nurse can promote health?

Helping with smoking cessation. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the biologic theories of aging widely accepted?

Free radicals cause damage to cells. Signup and view all the answers

Which exercise is suggested to help improve oxygen flow to the brain?

Deep breathing exercises. Signup and view all the answers

According to Maslow's theory, which need must be met first for successful patient education?

Basic physiological needs. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to plan activities for older adults?

To help them feel needed and respected. Signup and view all the answers

What should nurses consider when facilitating interactions between older adults and children?

Older adults enjoy sharing their life experiences. Signup and view all the answers

What is recommended to help reduce radical damage in older adults?

Ingesting varied nutritious diets and antioxidants. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of Activity Theory in late life?

Maintaining engagement and productivity Signup and view all the answers

According to Disengagement Theory, what is the primary purpose of the gradual withdrawal from society?

To maintain social equilibrium Signup and view all the answers

What does Subculture Theory suggest about the elderly?

They prefer to segregate into an aging subculture Signup and view all the answers

In continuity theory, what influences an individual's life satisfaction?

Personality and previous life roles Signup and view all the answers

What does Age Stratification Theory focus on?

Stratification of society based on age groups Signup and view all the answers

Which psychological theory emphasizes the importance of fulfilling five basic human needs?

Maslow’s Human Needs Theory Signup and view all the answers

Jung's Individualism Theory includes a concept known as what?

Middle life crisis Signup and view all the answers

What are the two primary stages in Erikson's theory relevant to aging?

Generativity vs self-absorption and Ego integrity vs despair Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Biological Theories of Aging

Stochastic Theories: Depict aging as a result of random events causing cellular damage.
- Free Radical Theory: Suggests that free radicals damage cellular membranes, nucleic acids, and proteins.
  - Sources include tobacco smoke, pesticides, radiation, and medications.
  - Health recommendations: lower calorie intake, nutrient-dense diet with antioxidants, reduce inflammation, minimize metal accumulation.
- Orgel/Error Theory: Proposes errors in DNA and RNA synthesis contribute to aging.
- Wear and Tear Theory: Compares cells to machines, suggesting they wear out leading to loss of function with age.
- Connective Tissue/Cross-Link Theory: Indicates that aging hinders protein function, impacting nutrient transfer and waste removal in cells.
Non-Stochastic Theories: Suggest aging results from genetically programmed mechanisms.
- Programmed Theory: Cells divide a finite number of times before triggering apoptosis; telomeres shorten with each division.
- Gene/Biological Clock Theory: Suggests a genetic code determines the aging process.
- Neuroendocrine Theory: States that dysfunction in the hypothalamus-pituitary-endocrine axis contributes to aging.
- Immunologic/Autoimmune Theory: Attributes aging to a decline in immunological function.

Psychosocial Theories of Aging

Sociological Theories: Focus on societal roles and relationships, impacting adaptation in older adults.
- Activity Theory: Claims continued engagement in activities is essential for late-life satisfaction.
- Disengagement Theory: Advocates for gradual withdrawal from social interactions for internal reflection.
- Subculture Theory: Observes that the elderly may prefer segregation into aging subcultures, sharing experiences against societal negativity.
- Continuity Theory: Proposes that consistent personality shapes roles and life satisfaction throughout aging.
- Age Stratification Theory: Highlights society's stratification by age groups influencing resource acquisition and status.
- Person-Environment Fit Theory: Suggests that function is shaped by individual attributes and their environment.
Psychological Theories: Examine aging through mental processes and emotional development.
- Human Needs (Maslow): Argues that fulfillment of five basic needs drives behavior toward self-actualization.
- Individualism Theory (Jung): Discusses the inward focus and search for meaning during middle age, leading to successful aging.
- Stages of Personality Development (Erikson): Outlines personality development across eight stages, emphasizing tasks such as generativity versus stagnation.
- Life-course/Lifespan Development: Affirms that life stages are structured around roles, relationships, and goals.