Sister Letty G. Kuan's Retirement and Role Discontinuity Model PDF

“I have grown and sown and now I can reap the reward and blessing of a life lived in joy and love, for I too have made others grow.” -Sister Letty G. Kuan SISTER LETTY G. KUAN’S RETIREMENT AND ROLE DISCONTINUITY MODEL...

“I have grown and sown and now I can reap the reward and blessing of a life lived in joy and love, for I too have made others grow.” -Sister Letty G. Kuan SISTER LETTY G. KUAN’S RETIREMENT AND ROLE DISCONTINUITY MODEL 1936-Present DUMO – DUNQUE – EVANGELISTA – FABRE – KOH – YAID  Retirement is an inevitable change is one’s life. It is evident in the increasing statistics of the aging population. The word, retirement, stems from the word, retirer, in old French meaning “to retreat or withdraw”. Retirement is mostly considered to be an act of ending one’s paid working or professional career, but it also has been used to indicate a place of seclusion1. Retirement can be defined by two primary attributes including: (a) It is a transitional period surrounding stopping or changing full or part- time, paid, or unpaid employment status, and (b) it occurs at a time when a person self-identifies as being retired. Retirement is, therefore, a transitional period when an individual acknowledges slowing or ceasing of paid employment activities2. Sister Letty G. Kuan has made significant contributions to the understanding of life transitions, particularly in relation to aging and retirement. Her Role Discontinuity Model offers a theoretical framework for understanding the psychological and social challenges individuals face during major life adjustment, such as retirement. The model is grounded in the concept that retirement can lead to role discontinuity, wherein, individuals experience a disruption or loss of their social and professional identities. The model emphasizes the importance of support systems, self-reflection, and adaptive strategies to help individuals successfully navigate during this period. And health care professionals play a supporting role in maintaining psychological well-being and social connectedness. Biography of Sister Letty G. Kuan Theorist’s Life and Education: Born on November 19, 1936 and hails from Katipunan-Dipolog, Zamboanga de Norte, whose father is a native Chinese businessman and her mother who was a home economics teacher. She completed her baccalaureate studies at the University of the Philippines, College of Nursing (UPCN). She had two Masters’ Degrees, Master of Arts in Nursing (1975) and Master of Arts in Education major in Guidance Counseling (1979), UP. Holds two Doctoral Degree in Education (Guidance and Counseling) in Nursing (1985), both from UP. Awarded the distinctive post of Professor Emeritus at University of the Philippines in September 2004. She has clinical fellowship and specialization in Neuropsychology obtained from University of Paris, France in (Salpetriere Hospital). Neurogerontology in Watertown, New York (Good Samaritan Hospital) and Syracuse University, New York.She further added this field of specialization in Geneva in the Centre des Soins Intensifs pour les troisieme age group. She also had Bioethics formal training at Institute of Religion, Ethics and Law at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas from 1991 - 1997. She is a recipient of the Metrobank Foundation "Award of Continuity Integrity and Excellence in Service" (ACIES) in 2004. Her religious community is the Notre Dame de Vie founded in France in 1932. Dr. Letty G. Kuan is currently Professor Emerita of the University of the Philippines College of Nursing, accorded this highest honor, tenure for life. As a former member of the Board of Nursing her latest legacy the Nursing Community is without a doubt, indisputable. Letty G. Kuan's Retirement and Role Discontinuities Theory is significant in the field of nursing, particularly in addressing the needs of older adults and retirees. Her theory focuses on the process of retirement and its impact on individuals' roles, identity, and well-being. Kuan developed a theory on retirement and role discontinuities that identifies factors like health, income, work status and family as determinants of positive perceptions during retirement transitions. DUMO – DUNQUE – EVANGELISTA – FABRE – KOH – YAID These are some of her Theory Contributions: 1. Understanding Role Transition in Older Adults Kuan's theory emphasizes the challenges that arise when individuals transition from active roles (such as employment) to retirement. Nurses can use this framework to understand how retirement affects a person's self-concept, purpose, and mental health. 2. Holistic Care for Retirees The theory highlights the importance of addressing both physical and psychosocial needs during retirement. Nurses can use her concepts to provide holistic care, focusing on retirees' mental and emotional wellbeing alongside their physical health. 3. Guidance for Health Promotion Kuan's theory encourages nurses to promote health and wellness among retirees, helping them adapt to role discontinuities. For instance, nurses can design health education and community programs to foster active aging and engagement. 4. Framework for Nursing Practice Nurses can use the theory as a framework for interventions aimed at mitigating the negative effects of retirement, such as social isolation, depression, and loss of purpose. 5. Research and Policy Development The theory has informed research on aging and retirement, encouraging further studies on how role discontinuities affect health outcomes. It also guides the development of policies and programs for the elderly. 6. Empowerment through Coping Strategies Kuan's work emphasizes the importance of coping mechanisms to deal with role changes. Nurses can support retirees in finding new roles, hobbies, or social connections to maintain a sense of purpose. History of the Theory Development of the Theory: Letty G. Kuan, a prominent Filipino nurse theorist, who developed the Retirement and Role Discontinuity, which focuses on the experiences of retirees, particularly the psychological and social challenges they face during the transition from working life to retirement. The theory is grounded in the understanding that retirement represents a major life event, marking the end of formal professional roles and often resulting in significant changes to an individual's daily routines, social identity, and sense of purpose. Central to Kuan’s theory is the concept of *role discontinuity*, which refers to the disruption in roles that occurs when individuals retire. This disruption can lead to emotional distress as retirees experience a loss of identity, self- esteem, and a sense of usefulness that was previously tied to their professional roles. Kuan’s theory suggests that successful adaptation to retirement depends on the individual’s ability to cope with these changes. Factors such as health, financial stability, family support, and personal outlook significantly influence how well an individual adjusts to retirement. For instance, retirees who maintain good health, have stable financial resources, and enjoy strong family and social networks are more likely to adapt successfully to their new roles. DUMO – DUNQUE – EVANGELISTA – FABRE – KOH – YAID  On the other hand, those who struggle with these factors may find the transition more challenging, potentially leading to feelings of purposelessness and emotional instability. The historical development of Kuan’s theory was motivated by the increasing elderly population in the Philippines and globally, highlighting the need to address the well-being of older adults. As a nurse, Kuan was particularly attuned to the physical and psychological health challenges faced by retirees, particularly those who had previously held strong professional identities. Her theory is especially relevant in the cultural context of the Philippines, where social and family roles are deeply embedded in an individual’s identity, making the transition into retirement more difficult for many individuals. Kuan’s Retirement and Role Discontinuity Theory has practical applications in nursing, geriatric care, and retirement planning, offering a framework for healthcare professionals to provide psychological support and strategies for adaptation to retirees. By understanding the factors that influence a retiree's ability to cope with role discontinuity, nurses and other healthcare providers can better assist older adults in navigating this significant life transition. Overall, Kuan’s theory offers valuable insights into the importance of role adaptation and support systems in promoting the well- being of retirees, contributing significantly to the fields of nursing and gerontology. Important Concepts Basic Assumptions and Concepts3 Physiological Age – is the endurance of cells and tissues to withstand the wear-and-tear phenomenon of the human body. Some individuals are gifted with the strong genetic affinity to stay young for a long time period. Role – refers to the set of shared expectations focused upon a particular position. These may include beliefs about what goals or values the position incumbent is to pursue and the norms that will govern his behavior. It is also the set of shared expectations from the retiree’s socialization experiences and the values internalized while preparing for the position as well as the adaptations to the expectations socially defined for the position itself. For every social role there is complementary set of roles in the social structure among which interaction constantly occurs. Change of Life - is the period between near retirement and post-retirement years. In medico- physiological terms, this equates with the climacteric period of adjustment and readjustment to another tempo of life. Retiree - is an individual who has left the position occupied for the past years of productive life because he/she has reached the prescribed retirement age or has completed the required years of service. Role Discontinuity - is the interruption in the line of status enjoyed or performed. The interruption may be brought about by an accident, emergency, and change of position or retirement. Coping Approaches - refer to the interventions or measures applied to solve a problematic situation or state in order to restore or maintain equilibrium and normal functioning. Metaparadigm PERSON Elderly – is a classification of age group to any person reaching the mid 70‟s up to the 80's. Gerone - given to people who are old but gracefully able to function as useful citizens at home and in the community and an exemplar in fidelity to prayer life. HEALTH It is defined as aging. It is a slow process of growth towards maturity of mind, body and spirit. DUMO – DUNQUE – EVANGELISTA – FABRE – KOH – YAID Significance in Nursing The "Retirement and Role Discontinuity Model" by Kuan highlights the psychosocial and role- related changes individuals experience during retirement. Its significance in nursing lies in guiding holistic care for retirees, emphasizing role transition, adaptation, and well-being. 1. Role Discontinuity Refers to the disruption or cessation of previously held roles, leading to potential psychological stress or identity issues. Nurses can address this by helping individuals identify new, meaningful roles. 2. Role of transition Focuses on the adjustment process as individuals shift from active employment to retirement. Nurses empower retirees to prepare for changes in lifestyle, finances, and social roles, fostering smoother adjustments. 3. Coping Mechanisms Emphasizes how individuals manage role changes through personal and social resources. Nurses can foster resilience by promoting healthy coping strategies. 4. Adaptation Process Focuses on adjusting to new life circumstances. Nurses play a critical role in facilitating this adaptation through education, counseling, and support. 5. Support Systems Highlights the importance of social and familial support in retirement adjustment. Nurses can involve families in care plans to strengthen these networks. 6. Quality of Life Emphasizes the importance of maintaining physical, emotional, and social well-being in retirement. Nurses can promote health education, preventive care, and wellness programs to improve retirees' overall quality of life. Application in Nursing Practice Retirement starts when a person has reached the prescribed age of retirement and ceases his role in work productivity. At this stage, role discontinuity occurs and the person has to adapt to change. As these life changing events were experienced by the elderly, certain adjustments are necessary that could lead to fruitful aging. There are determinants that were identified that intervene to the adjustment process before attaining a fruitful retirement and aging4: Prepared Retirement, Health Status, Income, Family Constellation, and Self-Preparation. These determinants were identified to have a positive effect on the outlook of the individual on the outcome of the retirement. The expected outcome of the implementing the determinants is having a fruitful retirement and aging. This theory states that retirement is another phase in a person’s life that would require some adjustments in order to have a fruitful retirement and aging. According to the theory, there are some roles that the person has already learned to play for many years. Now that the role has to be discontinued, there is a period of adjustment for this too, so that the person can adjust to yet again, another role in their life. There are different things that can make the role discontinuity and retirement become positive in people’s lives. DUMO – DUNQUE – EVANGELISTA – FABRE – KOH – YAID  The determinants of positive of positive outcome in retirement and fruitful aging concerning role discontinuity: Health Status – refers to healthy or sick status of the respondents according to their physical and mental well-being. Income (economic level) – refers to the capacity of an individual financially, that is classified by poor, moderate, and rich. Work Status – refers to the status of an individual in the aspect of employment. Family Constellation – means the type of family composition described either close knit or extended family where three more generations of family members live under one roof; or distanced family, whose member live in separate dwelling units; or nuclear type of family, wherein, only husband, wife, and children live together. Self-Preparation – refers to the preparedness of oneself to the possible outcomes in life. Application in Nursing Practice Today Sister Letty G. Kuan’s Retirement and Role Discontinuity Model is a valuable theoretical framework in nursing practice, particularly in addressing the challenges faced by individuals undergoing significant life transitions, such as retirement. The model emphasizes the psychological and social impact of role discontinuity, where the loss or change in an individual's role, such as leaving the workforce, can lead to feelings of confusion, insecurity, and even distress. In nursing practice today, this model can be applied in various aspects of patient care, decision-making, and nursing education. Below are several examples of how this model can be integrated into contemporary nursing practice: 1. Patient Care Understanding the Impact of Retirement on Health: Nurses working with older adults or retirees can use Kuan’s model to assess and address the emotional and psychological impacts of retirement. For example, a retired individual may struggle with their sense of identity or purpose, leading to issues like depression, anxiety, or social isolation. Nurses can apply Kuan’s model by recognizing these concerns and offering support through active listening, counseling, and facilitating social engagement opportunities. Encouraging participation in community programs, hobbies, or volunteer work can help individuals create new roles and maintain a sense of purpose. Case Example: A retiree with a history of being a dedicated teacher may feel a sense of loss after leaving the workforce. Nurses can assess how this change affects their mental health and tailor care plans that focus not only on physical health but also on emotional well-being. Offering resources for counseling or recommending social support groups for retirees can help individuals navigate the emotional challenges associated with role discontinuity. 2. Decision-Making in Nursing Practice Holistic Approach to Care: Nurses can apply the Retirement and Role Discontinuity Model to make more informed, empathetic decisions in patient care, especially for older adults nearing or experiencing retirement. By understanding that retirement may result in a discontinuity of roles, nurses can prioritize both the physical and psychological health of patients. For example, nurses may help older patients decide whether to continue engaging in certain activities or work part-time to maintain a sense of purpose while managing their health needs. Case Example: A nurse working with an older patient who has recently retired may assess how retirement affects their lifestyle and health choices. If the patient is not participating in physical activity or is feeling disconnected from their community, the nurse could suggest low-impact exercises or involvement in senior social clubs, while also discussing how these changes may impact the patient’s sense of self. DUMO – DUNQUE – EVANGELISTA – FABRE – KOH – YAID 3. Nursing Education Training Future Nurses to Address Role Discontinuity: Educators can use Kuan’s model in nursing curricula to prepare future nurses to understand the psychological impacts of retirement and other life transitions. By incorporating the concept of role discontinuity into courses on aging, mental health, and geriatric care, students can better recognize the social and emotional challenges faced by retirees. Teaching students to adopt a holistic approach to patient care that includes assessing psychological well-being can improve the quality of care provided to older adults. Case Example: In nursing education, instructors can incorporate case studies of retirees facing role discontinuity to teach students how to address the unique needs of aging individuals. Students could practice role-playing exercises where they assess and address both the physical and psychological needs of retirees, offering support for identity preservation and social integration during the transition. Simulation: Educators can develop simulations where nursing students must care for retirees who are adjusting to new roles. Students would practice communication skills, emotional support strategies, and making decisions that consider the broader impact of role transitions on a retiree's health and well- being. 4. Advocacy and Policy Development Advocacy for Retirement Planning in Healthcare: Nurses can advocate for policies that support individuals during retirement transitions, ensuring access to mental health services, social engagement opportunities, and resources that help retirees navigate role discontinuity. This may involve pushing for programs or initiatives that offer mental health counseling, social clubs, or community-based activities aimed at easing the psychological effects of retirement. Case Example: Nurses can collaborate with healthcare teams to recommend retirement planning services for individuals nearing retirement, emphasizing the importance of managing not just financial but emotional and social aspects of retirement. This can help prevent role discontinuity from impacting mental health. 5. Collaborative Care Multidisciplinary Collaboration: The application of Kuan’s model can also promote collaboration between nurses and other healthcare professionals, such as social workers, psychologists, and gerontologists, to address the multifaceted challenges of role discontinuity. Together, they can develop comprehensive care plans that support retirees in adapting to new roles and maintaining a high quality of life. Case Example: A nurse working with a retiree may collaborate with a social worker to develop a plan that includes mental health counseling, physical therapy, and social engagement activities. This holistic approach helps retirees manage both the practical and emotional aspects of their transition. Conclusion Sister Letty G. Kuan's Retirement and Role Discontinuity Model is a valuable tool for nursing practice today, providing a framework to better understand and support individuals facing life transitions, such as retirement. By applying this model in patient care, decision-making, and nursing education, nurses can offer more comprehensive and empathetic care, addressing both the psychological and physical aspects of role change. The model encourages a holistic approach that not only promotes physical health but also emphasizes emotional well-being, social connectedness, and a sense of purpose during significant life transitions. DUMO – DUNQUE – EVANGELISTA – FABRE – KOH – YAID References: 1 Studocu. (n.d.). Retirement AND ROLE discontinuities 1 - RETIREMENT AND ROLE DISCONTINUITIES- SR. LETTY KUAN - Studocu. https://www.studocu.com/ph/document/western- leyte-college-of-ormoc/theoretical-foundation-in-nursing/retirement-and-role-discontinuities- 1/41575639 2 Sheppard, F. H. (2018). Retirement: A concept for nurses to consider. Nursing Forum, 53(4), 498–503. https://doi.org/10.1111/nuf.12278 3 https://www.coursehero.com/file/131318983/RETIREMENT-AND-ROLE-DISCONTINUITY- MODELdocx/ DUMO – DUNQUE – EVANGELISTA – FABRE – KOH – YAID