Aging The Elderly
Thesis: Older people can still feel young by engaging in social ______activities that can help them cope with aging.
I. Introduction
II. What is Aging?
III. What are the Changes?
A. Physical Changes
B. Mental Changes
C. Sociological Changes
IV. Needs of the Elderly
A. Health Needs of the Elderly
B. Psychological Needs
V. How to hasten the process of Aging?
VI. Programs and Services for the Aged
VII. The senior Citizen’s Club
VIII. Homes for the Aged
IX. Death: A reality Especially for older people
A. Death is final and irreversible
B. Grief responses are normal and necessary
C. Certain cultural activities and rites may follow ___after death.
D. Individuals need emotional comfort during ___bereavement.
X. Future care for the Elderly
XI. Conclusion …show more content…
XII. Bibliography
INTRODUCTION I chose Aging because it connects to our daily life.
I also want to know the importance of aging in order for us to live comfortably everyday. Aging has to do with our physical condition as well as our outlook in life. A person may look young outside but may feel old inside. The many changes that take place as one grows older can be attributed to a host of physiological, psychological, social, and environmental factors. As we grow older, the replacement of worn-out cells gradually slows down. The part of our body that typically ages least and maintains its vigor well into the later years is the brain. What is Aging? What are the Physical Changes? What are the Mental Changes? What are the Sociological Changes? And What are the needs of the Elderly? In reading this, you’ll learn many things about it and you’ll imagine what will happen in the future if you do the right decision.
II. WHAT IS AGING? Aging is normal developmental factor and a continuous lifelong process that begins at birth and ends in death. It also refers to the many physical, mental, emotional, and social changes that an individual experiences throughout his or her life.1
III. WHAT ARE THE CHANGES?
A. PHYSICAL …show more content…
CHANGES
As an individual reaches his or her twenties, physical aging begins. Starting at this period and going through later adulthood, the body has less strength and less endurance as it ages and needs more repair work. Other organs, especially the five senses, slowly weaken. Those who never used eyeglasses in their younger years would usually need them in later year. Older people hear low tones fairly well, but their ability to perceive the high tones declines. Most parts of the body slowly weaken. The bones become more brittle, stiff, and weak; mobility is lessened.
B. MENTAL CHANGES For most people, aging has little effect on their cognitive functions. It is one of the joys of late adulthood that long after the body slows down and has limited physical activity, the mind can continue seek and explore. Older people do not learn new things as quickly as young people. However, once something has been learned, it is remembered better and more accurately. Some, however, suffer from DEMENTIA, a disease which interferes with the normal working of the mind. People who suffer from dementia lose their memory and are generally unable to carry on normal activities. Another form of mental deterioration that occurs in old age is Alzheimer’s disease. People with Alzheimer’s disease gradually lose their memory, power of speech, and control of body movements.
C. SOCIOLOGICAL CHANGES These may include the loss of spouse, mandatory retirement, problems with mobility, lack of involvement in community activities, inadequate resources for medical services, financial problems, loss of role identification, and loneliness. The effects of aging can be slowed down through good health habits and good nutrition. We can help older people to develop these if we could encourage them to: (1) be physically and mentally active; (2) eat a well-balanced diet; (3) drink plenty of water; (4) have good sleeping habits; (5) avoid smoking and drinking alcoholic beverages; (6) maintain normal weight; (7) have leisure activities; and (8) have regular visits to the doctor.2
IV. NEEDS OF THE ELDERLY
There are older people who can cope well with a ging. They continue to live worthwhile lives. But there are older people who cannot accept aging graciously and much worse, there are those who experienced fear and anxiety. It is important for young people to understand the needs of the elderly.
A. HEALTH NEEDS OF THE ELDERLY The health care for the aged aims to help the elderly remain physically, mentally, and socially active. They need help in devising ways to keep them mobile. For example, physical handicaps associated with arthritis can be minimized through self-care devices that will allow the elderly person to continue doing households chores, such as cooking, cleaning, and doing the laundry. Older persons will need some assistance in achieving and preserving a maximum level of health. Therefore, medical care becomes an essential part of their health needs. However, they should be allowed to continue caring for themselves and making decisions about their own lifestyle.
B. PSYCHOLOGICAL NEEDS It is important to give attention to the elderly person’s self-esteem and sense of worth. Older persons have much to offer in terms of wisdom and life experiences. The need for love and sense of belonging can be met if they are allowed to be involved in maintaining the well-being of the community in which they live.3
V. HOW TO HASTEN THE PROCESS OF AGING
The process of aging can be hastened by the physical and social environment, the ineffective ways of coping with conflict and stress, and an unhealthy lifestyle.
The aging process can also be affected by society’s attitude toward the elderly. The term ageism refers to negative feelings directed toward an older person simply on account of age.
Younger people must make sure that acceptance and affection are accorded to older people. The feeling of neglect should not be felt by them. This will contribute to better health for them in the years ahead.4
VI. PROGRAMS AND SERVICES FOR THE AGED
Older people need help in supporting themselves financial assistance. The government and some civic organizations have created programs and services to help older people.5
VII. THE SENIOR CITIZEN’S CLUB
The city and municipal governments all over the country have created the Senior Citizen’s Club in their jurisdictions to provide assistance to senior citizens. This is in consonance with Republic Act 7432. A senior Citizen’s Card is given to every member. With this, senior citizens can avail houses, restaurants, etc. the Club also provides some financial assistance to the families of recently –deceased members. There is separate senior citizen’s card, which entitles an elderly to a five percent discount on some grocery items.6
VIII. HOMES FOR THE AGED
There are homes for the aged that house older people who have no one to look after them. Some doctors, nurses, and care givers take care of the old people in the institutions. They provide the needs of these people through donations from people who care for the elderly. Some of these institution are Tagum Home for the Aged - Visayan Village, Tagum, Davao del Norte, Golden Acres(Home for the Aged)-DSWD – Bago Bantay, Quezon City, Home for the Elderly(Reg.IX) – Talon, Zamboanga City, and many more.7
IX. DEATH: A REALITY ESPECIALLY FOR OLDER PEOPLE
Nobody can live forever. This is a fact that everyone must face and accept, particularly the elderly. As physical health fails, the body systems deteriorate. All senses decline in their functions until they can no longer respond to any situation. Death is the end of a deteriorating body. To assist people in accepting the reality of death, these fact be stressed:
A. DEATHLY IS FINAL AND IRREVERSIBLE Death is a part of life and should be understood fully with appreciation and acceptance. It is unavoidable. It is a biological reality - an end to life.
B. GRIEF RESPONSES ARE NORMAL AND NECESSARY Grief is an unavoidable human emotion, a natural response to a certain experience in life. In reaction to a major loss, such as the death of a loved one, grief is a normal and an essential part of coming to terms with and surviving the devastating event. Giving the right conditions of patience, support, respect, and a listening ear will help bereaved people manage to deal with their grief.
C. CERTAIN CULTURAL ACTIVITIES AND RITES MAY FOLLOW AFTER DEATH There are certain activities and rites practiced by bereaved families. These activities vary according to cultural upbringing and religious background. To some groups, wearing a black dress shows their grief and mourning.
D. INDIVIDUALS NEED EMOTIONAL COMFORT DURING BEREAVEMENT The death of a loved one can temporarily depress a person. Losing someone you love is a very painful experience.
This can cause different reactions that may lead to mental health problems. The loss of a loved one can lead to emotions, such as: (1) Denial – disbelief and non-acceptance of death; (2) Anger – feeling of being cheated; (3) Bargaining – striking a compromise; (4) Depression – being withdrawn and going through prolonged periods of silence or crying. Getting together and socializing with other members of the family may help release some of the feelings of grief. With the emotional support received from other people, the bereaved can be enlightened and will understand that death is normal part of human life.8
X. FUTURE CARE FOR THE ELDERLY
If parents or grandparents are in their golden years, keep in mind that sooner or later, they will need assistance. It is never too early to start planning for their future care. Everyone can benefit from being prepared and making long-term plans early on. The point is not to control the lives of parents/grandparents, but to support them. They should be given as much autonomy and independence as possible. They should asked about their concerns and their worries. Know what is important to them and how they can be
helped.9
CONCLUSION
Senior Citizens need companionship and should engage in mind and body stimulating activities. Find time to take them to a resort, a mall, or a support group where they can connect with the world and people around them. Planning activities with them can help them understand that life is still precious. That will make them feel better and strive to be more functional even in their old age.
BIBLIOGRAPHY “Aging”, Grolier Encyclopedia of Knowledge, United States of _____America: Grolier Incorporate, 2004.
“Homes for older people” Manila Bulletin, July 1, 2006. http://www.chanrobles.com/republicactno7876.htm#.UT1fvh1uCg. http://www.co.westmoreland.pa.us/aging/cwp/view.asp?a=3&q=_____612776. http://www.merckmanuals.com/home/older_peoples_health_issue_____s/the_aging_body/changes_in_the_body_with_aging.html. http://www.namastepublishing.com/blog/compassionate-_____eye/how-facing-reality-death-can-awaken-us-our-essential-_____being. http://www.ssireview.org/blog/entry/elderly_care_and_the________future_of_social_innovation. Mateo, Grace Estela C., Ph. D., et.al, PE and Health. G. Araneta Ave. _____cor. Ma. Clara St. 1107 Quezon City, Philippines: SD _____Publications, Inc., 2009.
Reed Monica, “Ways to look and Feel Younger” Health and Home, _____January 2008.
I. Introduction
II. What is Aging?
III. What are the Changes?
A. Physical Changes
B. Mental Changes
C. Sociological Changes
IV. Needs of the Elderly
A. Health Needs of the Elderly
B. Psychological Needs
V. How to hasten the process of Aging?
VI. Programs and Services for the Aged
VII. The senior Citizen’s Club
VIII. Homes for the Aged
IX. Death: A reality Especially for older people
A. Death is final and irreversible
B. Grief responses are normal and necessary
C. Certain cultural activities and rites may follow ___after death.
D. Individuals need emotional comfort during ___bereavement.
X. Future care for the Elderly
XI. Conclusion …show more content…
XII. Bibliography
INTRODUCTION I chose Aging because it connects to our daily life.
I also want to know the importance of aging in order for us to live comfortably everyday. Aging has to do with our physical condition as well as our outlook in life. A person may look young outside but may feel old inside. The many changes that take place as one grows older can be attributed to a host of physiological, psychological, social, and environmental factors. As we grow older, the replacement of worn-out cells gradually slows down. The part of our body that typically ages least and maintains its vigor well into the later years is the brain. What is Aging? What are the Physical Changes? What are the Mental Changes? What are the Sociological Changes? And What are the needs of the Elderly? In reading this, you’ll learn many things about it and you’ll imagine what will happen in the future if you do the right decision.
II. WHAT IS AGING? Aging is normal developmental factor and a continuous lifelong process that begins at birth and ends in death. It also refers to the many physical, mental, emotional, and social changes that an individual experiences throughout his or her life.1
III. WHAT ARE THE CHANGES?
A. PHYSICAL …show more content…
CHANGES
As an individual reaches his or her twenties, physical aging begins. Starting at this period and going through later adulthood, the body has less strength and less endurance as it ages and needs more repair work. Other organs, especially the five senses, slowly weaken. Those who never used eyeglasses in their younger years would usually need them in later year. Older people hear low tones fairly well, but their ability to perceive the high tones declines. Most parts of the body slowly weaken. The bones become more brittle, stiff, and weak; mobility is lessened.
B. MENTAL CHANGES For most people, aging has little effect on their cognitive functions. It is one of the joys of late adulthood that long after the body slows down and has limited physical activity, the mind can continue seek and explore. Older people do not learn new things as quickly as young people. However, once something has been learned, it is remembered better and more accurately. Some, however, suffer from DEMENTIA, a disease which interferes with the normal working of the mind. People who suffer from dementia lose their memory and are generally unable to carry on normal activities. Another form of mental deterioration that occurs in old age is Alzheimer’s disease. People with Alzheimer’s disease gradually lose their memory, power of speech, and control of body movements.
C. SOCIOLOGICAL CHANGES These may include the loss of spouse, mandatory retirement, problems with mobility, lack of involvement in community activities, inadequate resources for medical services, financial problems, loss of role identification, and loneliness. The effects of aging can be slowed down through good health habits and good nutrition. We can help older people to develop these if we could encourage them to: (1) be physically and mentally active; (2) eat a well-balanced diet; (3) drink plenty of water; (4) have good sleeping habits; (5) avoid smoking and drinking alcoholic beverages; (6) maintain normal weight; (7) have leisure activities; and (8) have regular visits to the doctor.2
IV. NEEDS OF THE ELDERLY
There are older people who can cope well with a ging. They continue to live worthwhile lives. But there are older people who cannot accept aging graciously and much worse, there are those who experienced fear and anxiety. It is important for young people to understand the needs of the elderly.
A. HEALTH NEEDS OF THE ELDERLY The health care for the aged aims to help the elderly remain physically, mentally, and socially active. They need help in devising ways to keep them mobile. For example, physical handicaps associated with arthritis can be minimized through self-care devices that will allow the elderly person to continue doing households chores, such as cooking, cleaning, and doing the laundry. Older persons will need some assistance in achieving and preserving a maximum level of health. Therefore, medical care becomes an essential part of their health needs. However, they should be allowed to continue caring for themselves and making decisions about their own lifestyle.
B. PSYCHOLOGICAL NEEDS It is important to give attention to the elderly person’s self-esteem and sense of worth. Older persons have much to offer in terms of wisdom and life experiences. The need for love and sense of belonging can be met if they are allowed to be involved in maintaining the well-being of the community in which they live.3
V. HOW TO HASTEN THE PROCESS OF AGING
The process of aging can be hastened by the physical and social environment, the ineffective ways of coping with conflict and stress, and an unhealthy lifestyle.
The aging process can also be affected by society’s attitude toward the elderly. The term ageism refers to negative feelings directed toward an older person simply on account of age.
Younger people must make sure that acceptance and affection are accorded to older people. The feeling of neglect should not be felt by them. This will contribute to better health for them in the years ahead.4
VI. PROGRAMS AND SERVICES FOR THE AGED
Older people need help in supporting themselves financial assistance. The government and some civic organizations have created programs and services to help older people.5
VII. THE SENIOR CITIZEN’S CLUB
The city and municipal governments all over the country have created the Senior Citizen’s Club in their jurisdictions to provide assistance to senior citizens. This is in consonance with Republic Act 7432. A senior Citizen’s Card is given to every member. With this, senior citizens can avail houses, restaurants, etc. the Club also provides some financial assistance to the families of recently –deceased members. There is separate senior citizen’s card, which entitles an elderly to a five percent discount on some grocery items.6
VIII. HOMES FOR THE AGED
There are homes for the aged that house older people who have no one to look after them. Some doctors, nurses, and care givers take care of the old people in the institutions. They provide the needs of these people through donations from people who care for the elderly. Some of these institution are Tagum Home for the Aged - Visayan Village, Tagum, Davao del Norte, Golden Acres(Home for the Aged)-DSWD – Bago Bantay, Quezon City, Home for the Elderly(Reg.IX) – Talon, Zamboanga City, and many more.7
IX. DEATH: A REALITY ESPECIALLY FOR OLDER PEOPLE
Nobody can live forever. This is a fact that everyone must face and accept, particularly the elderly. As physical health fails, the body systems deteriorate. All senses decline in their functions until they can no longer respond to any situation. Death is the end of a deteriorating body. To assist people in accepting the reality of death, these fact be stressed:
A. DEATHLY IS FINAL AND IRREVERSIBLE Death is a part of life and should be understood fully with appreciation and acceptance. It is unavoidable. It is a biological reality - an end to life.
B. GRIEF RESPONSES ARE NORMAL AND NECESSARY Grief is an unavoidable human emotion, a natural response to a certain experience in life. In reaction to a major loss, such as the death of a loved one, grief is a normal and an essential part of coming to terms with and surviving the devastating event. Giving the right conditions of patience, support, respect, and a listening ear will help bereaved people manage to deal with their grief.
C. CERTAIN CULTURAL ACTIVITIES AND RITES MAY FOLLOW AFTER DEATH There are certain activities and rites practiced by bereaved families. These activities vary according to cultural upbringing and religious background. To some groups, wearing a black dress shows their grief and mourning.
D. INDIVIDUALS NEED EMOTIONAL COMFORT DURING BEREAVEMENT The death of a loved one can temporarily depress a person. Losing someone you love is a very painful experience.
This can cause different reactions that may lead to mental health problems. The loss of a loved one can lead to emotions, such as: (1) Denial – disbelief and non-acceptance of death; (2) Anger – feeling of being cheated; (3) Bargaining – striking a compromise; (4) Depression – being withdrawn and going through prolonged periods of silence or crying. Getting together and socializing with other members of the family may help release some of the feelings of grief. With the emotional support received from other people, the bereaved can be enlightened and will understand that death is normal part of human life.8
X. FUTURE CARE FOR THE ELDERLY
If parents or grandparents are in their golden years, keep in mind that sooner or later, they will need assistance. It is never too early to start planning for their future care. Everyone can benefit from being prepared and making long-term plans early on. The point is not to control the lives of parents/grandparents, but to support them. They should be given as much autonomy and independence as possible. They should asked about their concerns and their worries. Know what is important to them and how they can be
helped.9
CONCLUSION
Senior Citizens need companionship and should engage in mind and body stimulating activities. Find time to take them to a resort, a mall, or a support group where they can connect with the world and people around them. Planning activities with them can help them understand that life is still precious. That will make them feel better and strive to be more functional even in their old age.
BIBLIOGRAPHY “Aging”, Grolier Encyclopedia of Knowledge, United States of _____America: Grolier Incorporate, 2004.
“Homes for older people” Manila Bulletin, July 1, 2006. http://www.chanrobles.com/republicactno7876.htm#.UT1fvh1uCg. http://www.co.westmoreland.pa.us/aging/cwp/view.asp?a=3&q=_____612776. http://www.merckmanuals.com/home/older_peoples_health_issue_____s/the_aging_body/changes_in_the_body_with_aging.html. http://www.namastepublishing.com/blog/compassionate-_____eye/how-facing-reality-death-can-awaken-us-our-essential-_____being. http://www.ssireview.org/blog/entry/elderly_care_and_the________future_of_social_innovation. Mateo, Grace Estela C., Ph. D., et.al, PE and Health. G. Araneta Ave. _____cor. Ma. Clara St. 1107 Quezon City, Philippines: SD _____Publications, Inc., 2009.
Reed Monica, “Ways to look and Feel Younger” Health and Home, _____January 2008.