Instructions Complete The Following: Each Item's Response Sh ✓ Solved
Instructionscomplete The Following Each Items Response Should Include
Instructions complete the following. Each item's response should include a minimum of 75 words for a total of 300 words min. of original work. Posts will be graded on content and quality of writing. 1. Using your own experiences and observations, formulate a social theory on aging. How does it compare with the social theories described in this chapter? 2. Provide two examples of ageism you have seen in your own family, in your community, in the media, in your travels, and/or in your workplace. 3. Discuss some of the issues and concerns of a grandparent raising a grandchild. What steps, if any, can a healthcare professional take to support them? 4. Develop a scenario in which a vulnerable older adult could potentially become a victim of two or more types of elder abuse. Describe the steps a healthcare professional can take to uncover a potential problem.
Sample Paper For Above instruction
Understanding Aging: Social Theories, Ageism, and Elder Abuse
Introduction
Aging is a universal process that impacts individuals socially, psychologically, and physically. Understanding how society perceives and interacts with older adults is essential for developing effective support systems and interventions. This paper explores a personal social theory of aging, compares it with established social theories, discusses examples of ageism, examines the challenges faced by grandparents raising grandchildren, and presents a scenario illustrating elder abuse, along with steps healthcare professionals can take to address these issues.
Personal Social Theory on Aging
From my perspective, aging is a multifaceted process characterized by adaptation and resilience. I believe that aging involves adjusting to biological changes while maintaining social connections and purpose. Older adults often face societal stereotypes but can thrive by engaging in community activities and lifelong learning. This aligns closely with the activity theory, which emphasizes the importance of continued social engagement, and contrasts with disengagement theory, which suggests withdrawal is inevitable. My theory underscores active participation and social integration as key to positive aging experiences.
Comparison with Social Theories
The social theories of aging, including disengagement, activity, and continuity theories, offer diverse perspectives. Disengagement theory posits that withdrawal is natural and acceptable as individuals age, while activity theory advocates for ongoing engagement for life satisfaction. Continuity theory emphasizes maintaining established roles and routines throughout aging. My personal perspective aligns most closely with activity and continuity theories, emphasizing active engagement and social roles as fundamental to healthy aging, while recognizing that societal barriers can hinder such pursuits.
Examples of Ageism
Family Example
In my family, an elderly relative was subtly dismissed during conversations, with family members speaking over her and ignoring her opinions, reflecting a form of ageist attitude that marginalizes her contributions based on age.
Media Example
In the media, portrayals of older adults often depict them as frail, dependent, or out of touch, reinforcing stereotypes that limit societal perceptions of their capabilities and roles.
Challenges Faced by Grandparents Raising Grandchildren
Grandparents raising grandchildren often confront emotional stress, financial difficulties, and legal challenges. They may struggle with balancing caregiving responsibilities and their health needs. Healthcare professionals can support them by providing counseling services, connecting them with financial aid programs, and offering education on age-related health issues, as well as legal resources for custody and guardianship matters.
Scenario of Elder Abuse
Consider an older adult living alone who receives frequent visits from a caregiver. Over time, signs of physical injuries and unexplained financial transactions emerge. The caregiver may be exerting emotional abuse through manipulation. Healthcare professionals can uncover this by conducting confidential assessments, observing the patient's interactions, and coordinating with social workers to ensure safety and appropriate intervention.
Conclusion
Understanding the complexity of aging and recognizing societal issues like ageism and elder abuse are vital for improving the well-being of older adults. Healthcare professionals play a critical role in supporting vulnerable populations through awareness, prevention, and intervention strategies.
References
- Cavanaugh, J. C., & Blanchard-Fields, F. (2019). Adult Development and Aging. Cengage Learning.
- Holstein, K. A., & Minkler, M. (2003). Self, society, and the "new" gerontology. The Gerontologist, 43(6), 787-796.
- Johnson, R. W., Stokes, J., & Duffy, L. (2020). Ageism in society: The challenges and solutions. Journal of Aging & Social Policy, 32(2), 178-193.
- World Health Organization. (2020). Ageism: A social justice issue.
- Rowe, J. W., & Kahn, R. L. (1997). Successful aging. The Gerontologist, 37(4), 433-440.
- Mitchell, G. (2009). Elder abuse: Identification, prevention, and intervention. Journal of Applied Gerontology, 28(5), 607-623.
- Ferguson, G. M., et al. (2018). The impact of ageism on the health of older adults. Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 44(8), 11-17.
- McCarty, C. A., et al. (2018). Supporting grandparents raising grandchildren: Strategies for healthcare providers. Geriatric Nursing, 39(4), 445-453.
- National Institute on Aging. (2021). Understanding elder mistreatment.
- Angel, J. L., & Angel, R. J. (2017). A public health approach to aging and social support. Oxford University Press.