Definition Theories of Aging - Essay Example

"Definition Theories of Aging" is a decent example of a paper on care.

• Aging is the process where the biological body functions deteriorate, and they occur in the different stages of life. There are various types of aging theories, and all have their own importance. Havighurst’s theory is the theory used in this case study, and it deals with adult development stages. This theory will be the main point of discussion. The relevance of this theory to the case study being reviewed will also be discussed.
• Havighurst’s theory is simplified on the basis of the achievements and failures of an individual. The context in which nurses should apply this theory in their field of practice is through a thorough comprehension of aging effects. They also deal with age-related diseases that are likely to be developed by patients. This theory relates to Frank who is the patient in this case and the changes that he is experiencing. This theory has been essential since it addresses the needs of adults in remaining active and involved in different tasks that enable them to accomplish their goals and prolong their ages. It is true to say that, one’s personality becomes stable when they reach their old age stage. Patterns associated with personality have provided clues on how adjustments can be made to the individual’s health, socioeconomic and environmental conditions pursued by individuals. This continuity theory posits varied aging responses produced by individuals. Past limitations and losses explored by giving prevalence to the coping strategies employed. This is useful information for the nurses to ensure that they use effective strategies that counter the challenges faced by old people in society.
• Havighurst’s theory helps us get an understanding of Frank’s situation and his inability to perform his duties in his firm. It also provides an insight into the health situation that the patient is experiencing. The nurse needs to have adequate information about the patient so that proper care is provided.
• The theory chosen has a relation to the holistic concepts of care and what is required of nurses. The nurses should be able to observe a patient well so that they understand what is going on in their lives. The nurses should also understand that each patient is distinct and hence care should be customized for each patient. The nurses should also be role models so that they can impact the lives of their patients.
• The other two theories discussed in this case study are Erikson’s and Peck’s theories. Erikson’s theory bases itself on the conflict that psychosocial developments entail. Erikson’s theory is all about the successes and failures in each development stage of every person’s life. The experiences and information that we inherit throughout our everyday lives ensure that there is a change in the ego identity of individuals. The theory provides the nurse with the necessary skills and knowledge that will be useful in handling Frank’s case of despair and stagnation. Peck’s theory is a theory that describes the decline of the physical and sexual utilities existing in an individual. Peck’s theory consists of three stages namely; Ego Differentiation vs. Work Role Preoccupation, Body Transcendence vs. Body Preoccupation, and Ego Transcendence vs. Ego Preoccupation. The theory enables the patient to have a flexible mind which will be useful for the nurse when solving the problem at hand. The application of these two theories in the nurses’ field of practice is essential for the expression of changes that occur in each stage of development. The case study relates to these two theories on the grounds of development stages of life also the diseases that come with aging.
• From the above findings, the summary of information retrieved entails issues such as the aging process that occur in different life stages in the development process of individuals. The different theories of aging explained by diverse theorists give a detailed explanation of how these theories apply to individuals and organisms around developing countries. It is highly essential for individuals to understand and comprehend how these theories relate to their biological development stages. It gives them a clear direction on how to tackle the existing health problems that come with old age. The theory under question (Havighurst’s theory) clearly gives the nurses an understanding of how to handle their patients by giving them the necessary information to back their medical knowledge and insight. With the obtained information, nurses are in a better position of giving their clients the needed attention and care in ensuring that their health is restored.
• After carrying out the following research and using the case study to handle the questions, it is evident that certain lessons are learned at the end. Most of the people who go through this exercise are able to identify with and explain in detail what is meant by aging via using their own words and understanding. Patients are unique individuals who go through different life stages that lead to one being an elderly person in society. In most societies, elderly people are taken to old-age facilities, but individuals should first appreciate the fact that these individuals add value to society. Without them, many of us would not exist and therefore, we should be positive when handling their health issues and we are encouraged to treat them in a manner that will foster and promote their good health.