Introduction
Aging is a process associated with biological, psychological, and social changes that involve the decline of cellular and physical functional capacities and alterations in social roles and statuses. Furthermore, aging individuals have to adapt to new life circumstances and experience a reduction in available resources. An important aspect of aging is also a person’s interaction with society and overcoming potential issues such as social isolation, discrimination, and loss of autonomy. Approaches to understanding aging vary depending on the theory type and include biological, sociological, and psychological aspects. To deal with the drastic changes brought by age effectively, the target population group should engage in physical activity, seek mental and social support, control nutrition and hydration, and receive help with autonomy and integration.
Biological Theories of Aging and Nursing Implications
The free radical theory is based on the assumption that aging is caused by the accumulation of damage to DNA, proteins, and lipids in cells caused by the action of free radicals. Free radicals are atoms or molecules with incompatible internal electrical charges damaging tissues. These substances are present in all environments surrounding people (Baş, 2018). Nursing implications for aging based on the free radical theory include preventing and combating conditions predisposing to the appearance of free radicals and eliminating their effects, such as maintaining proper nutrition and limiting stress.
The immunological theory of aging suggests that aging is caused by a decline in the immune system. Such a decline can lead to the deterioration of the body’s protective functions and a higher frequency of infections in older people. Nursing implications for aging based on this theory involve healthy activity, proper use of alcohol and drugs, and the use of medications that can support a healthy immune system.
Sociological Theories of Aging and Nursing Implications
The social role theory seeks to explain differences in behavior and relationships between generations in a social environment. According to the social role theory, aging is a process related to the change in the roles that a person plays in society. At the core of the social role theory is the idea that each generation has its own set of social roles that they need to perform (Schneider & Bos, 2019). In this theory, aging is considered the process of transitioning from one role to another. Nursing implications for aging within this theory involve supporting patients in the process of transitioning to new roles and helping them adapt to a new environment.
The discrimination theory assumes that aging leads to negative stereotypes and discrimination in society, which frequently result in social isolation and poverty. Discrimination theory relates to aging theories that examine specific social differences and discrimination against people after a certain age (Bratt et al., 2018). Nursing implications for aging within the discrimination theory involve creating an environment and policies that prevent age-based bias. Nurses must support patients in their rights and access to resources and services.
Psychological Theories of Aging and Nursing Implications
The disengagement theory suggests that people age as a result of accepting and adapting to the reduction of various functions that they used to carry out in the past. According to this approach, aging is associated with a decrease in the number of resources available to the individual, such as time, money, and friends. As a result of fewer external activities and restrictions on social relationships, aging becomes more accepted (Holding et al., 2020). The nursing implications for aging based on the disengagement theory are to support and improve the quality of life of the elderly by providing them with necessary activity programs, social connections, and adaptation to changes.
The autonomy theory suggests that aging is a process associated with the strengthening of self-determination and independence from other people. This approach emphasizes the importance of uninterrupted and continuous autonomy in decision-making in all areas of life. Current nursing implications for aging based on the autonomy theory include supporting and strengthening autonomy by providing the elderly with the information necessary for making independent decisions aimed at improving their quality of life.
Nursing Interventions for Older Adults
Nursing interventions for the elderly should take into account both the psychosocial issues and biological changes related to older age and aging theories. One of the most useful interventions is the assessment and monitoring of health status through regular medical check-ups and evaluation of the mental state, functional abilities, and needs of the patients. Other viable approaches are those aimed at the management of chronic diseases, mental health support, social integration, support of autonomy and independence, physical activity, and rehabilitation.
Health Promotion Strategies for Successful Ageing
Strategies that are likely to enhance health during old age involve maintaining physical activity, promoting healthy nutrition, keeping regular exercise, engaging in social communication, and boosting mental activity. Stress management and relaxation techniques are also of vital importance and great value. Spiritual health care can also be useful since it can contribute to improving the elderly’s life satisfaction. Integrating these strategies can help older adults to remain healthy, active, and independent throughout the aging process.
Conclusion
Although aging is an inevitable process, it is possible to approach it with low-stress levels once all the psychological, biological, and social aspects are carefully considered. The knowledge of aging theories allows practitioners to evaluate the needs of their patients and single out those that require the most attention. With the correct choice and application of interventions and strategies, nursing specialists can alleviate the difficulties accompanying old age.
References
Baş, H. (2018). The effects of free radicals on the aging process. Current Trends in Biomedical Engineering & Biosciences, 13(5). Web.
Bratt, C., Abrams, D., Swift, H. J., Vauclair, C.-M., & Marques, S. (2018). Perceived age discrimination across age in Europe: From an aging society to a society for all ages. Developmental Psychology, 54(1), 167-180. Web.
Holding, A., Fortin, J.-A., Carpentier, J., Hope, N., & Koestner, R. (2020). Letting go of gold: Examining the role of autonomy in elite athletes’ disengagement from their athletic careers and well-being in retirement. Journal of Clinical Sport Psychology, 14, 88-108. Web.
Schneider, M. C., & Bos, A. L. (2019). The application of social role theory to the study of gender in politics. Advances in Political Psychology, 40(1), 173-213. Web.