Running Head: Care For The Elderly Patient

RUNNING HEAD CARE FOR THE ELDERLY PATIENTCARE OF THE ELDERLY PATIENTC

Care of the Elderly Patient Betsy Quinones South University NSG4067- Gerontological Nursing August 17, 2020 The age-related changes that are identical to those learned and those interviewed during the week were related to diet, exercise, and general health. Notably, there are changed and increased nutrient needs in both scenarios. The person interviewed noted that there is an increase in the need for nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D. Further, there is a decrease in the demand for high-calorie foods, because of low activity levels. There is also increased blood pressure because of the stiffening of blood vessels, which causes the heart to work harder, pumping blood.

Another change experienced due to old age is experienced in bone and joint health. As learned, as a person ages, bones shrink in density and size, which makes them easy to fracture. The person interviewed admitted that he has experienced two fractures in his old age, and his joints no longer support him the way they used to. The dietary changes are modified to meet the requirements, as older people ingest high fiber food, low fat, and a lot of water. Additionally, high calcium sources such as milk and bony meat are ingested in high amounts to meet the increased calcium demands.

Due to the changes in bone and joint health, muscle strength is limited, which affects physical activity. Hence, the person could not be as active as they were in their youth. In contrast, the person’s philosophy of living in old age was different from what was learned in class. The interviewee believed that aging does not make him see the world differently. Accordingly, the philosophy of aging posits that people ponder over their life, and appreciate a life well-lived.

In their older years, they sit back, and enjoy the fruits of their labor, and try to be of service to their peers and family. However, the person interviewed elucidated that old age does not slow him down, as he still enjoys the same things he enjoyed as a youth. He always goes out, hangs out with younger people, and the only limitation he has is his health. The preliminary issues identified are mental health, dietary, social, financial, psychological, and spiritual. Mental health issues are rife because of social isolation or undiagnosed mental health problems.

Nutritional changes are evident because of the physiological changes that occur as a body age. As a person ages, they lose the energy to work, which means that finances are a sore point for some, as they experience more illnesses associated with old age, and they are expensive to treat. Psychological issues are related to social isolation, as some develop problems due to the stress of living alone. The last preliminary issue is spiritual, as a person in his old age reminisces on his life decisions, and questions the philosophical approach they choose to guide their lives in their youth. The three alterations in health that would be proposed are diet modifications, increased activity levels, and socialization.

Dietary changes are essential as a person ages are crucial to excellent health outcomes in older adults. According to Govindaraju et al. (2018), proper nutritional patterns are associated with a better quality of life in geriatrics. Notably, the Mediterranean diet is better, because it is higher while grains and vegetables and low in fat and processed food. Hence, the alteration in health is that older people have different dietary needs, because of changing physiological processes and loss of function of some areas, such as joints and bones. The second health alteration is activity levels, as older people have problems with bone and joint health.

Therefore, they cannot be as active due to the restriction. As such, they develop complications such as arthritis and encounter frequent fractures. Hence, their activity levels drop because they cannot be as active as they were when they were younger. However, older people need to stay active to stay healthy and prevent conditions such as hypertension and diabetes, which are highly prevalent in people with sedentary lifestyles. The last alternation to health is reduced socialization, which predisposes them to mental health issues.

Mental health problems are reported to be higher in people who are older than other population cohorts (Tiwari, Pandey & Singh, 2012). The mental health issues are partly caused by reduced socialization, because some do not have with family, and have lost spouses. To handle the issue of changing dietary needs, older people need to ingest a diet that is high in fiber, calcium, and low in fat or processed food. A diet high in fiber ensures proper bowel movements, and adequacy provides most micronutrients needed. A high calcium diet is good for bone and joint health, hence, reducing cardiovascular and skeletal system issues.

A diet low in fat and processed food ensures older people ingest food that is of nutritional quality, ensure proper bowel movement and reduces the prevalence of conditions such as hypertension and diabetes, hence, increasing their quality of life. The interventions for the second issue are to do at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly, three days of exercise for those with reduced mobility, and conducting aerobic activity for sessions lasting ten minutes each. Older adults not limited by joint or bone problems should be very active, to maintain balance, stay in perfect shape, and strengthen their bones. Those with mobility problems should exercise at least thrice a week, to maintain balance and avoid falls.

Aerobic exercises are good for cardiovascular health and should be conducted in moderation because of the increased needs age places on the heart. The last issue is less socialization, which leads to mental health issues, and it can solve by engaging adults in group activities, volunteering, or taking up a job. Social isolation occurs because older adults, primarily males, do not interact with many people, and those who lose spouses find it harder to socialize. Hence, to prevent the mental health issues, volunteering is excellent, because it gives them purpose, and integrates them into the society. The second method is working to provide them with meaning and prevent social isolation.

For some adults, money is not an issue, which means that they can take up jobs they are passionate about, and interact with other people. The last way social isolation can be prevented is by encouraging older adults to join a group activity such as seminars and support meetings. The cultural considerations in diet, activity levels, and socialization have to come into play in the intervention process because they determine the success of the plans implemented. The older adult interviewed is an American, which means the cultural considerations are American. Dietary concerns in America are no restrictive, which means the adult can feed on the recommended foods, as long as they are affordable.

Activity levels are restrictive because there aren’t many places older adults can exercise safely. Hence, it is paramount the advice the geriatric to exercise in an area they feel age, such as a gym, or their home. Socialization has restrictions on it because there are places older adults cannot freely interact, such as recreation centers with children, or teenagers. Hence, socialization should occur in areas that are age-appropriate and safe for them. References Govindaraju, T., Sahle, B. W., McCaffrey, T. A., McNeil, J. J., & Owen, A. J. (2018). Dietary patterns and quality of life in older adults: A systematic review. Nutrients, 10(8), 971. Tiwari, S. C., Pandey, N. M., & Singh, I. (2012). Mental health problems among inhabitants of old age homes: A preliminary study. Indian journal of psychiatry, 54(2), 144.

Paper For Above instruction

The care of elderly patients requires a comprehensive understanding of the physiological, psychological, social, and cultural changes that occur with aging. As individuals age, they face specific health challenges, including nutritional deficiencies, reduced physical activity, social isolation, and mental health issues. Addressing these challenges involves tailored interventions that promote optimal health and well-being, considering cultural preferences and individual circumstances.

Physiologically, aging leads to changes such as decreased bone density, muscle mass, and cardiovascular efficiency. These changes increase the risk of fractures, arthritis, hypertension, and other chronic conditions. Nutritional needs shift with age; for example, there is an increased requirement for calcium and vitamin D to maintain bone health, while calorie needs decrease due to lower activity levels. Proper diet modification is crucial for managing these physiological changes. According to Govindaraju et al. (2018), adherence to diets like the Mediterranean diet, rich in whole grains, vegetables, and healthy fats, improves the quality of life in older adults. Such diets help in managing weight, reducing cardiovascular risks, and maintaining overall health.

Physical activity remains essential, but opportunities and constraints vary among older adults. Engaging in regular moderate exercise, such as at least 150 minutes of aerobic activity weekly, enhances cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, and improves balance, thereby preventing falls. For those with mobility limitations, tailored exercises three times a week can help maintain function. Exercise recommendations must account for individual capacity and safety, emphasizing that staying active is vital for healthy aging. Nonetheless, aging-related joint and bone issues may restrict physical activity, making accessible safe spaces for exercise, like community centers or home-based routines, essential.

Psychosocial health is equally critical. Social isolation, often exacerbated by loss of loved ones or mobility issues, significantly impacts mental health, increasing risks of depression and cognitive decline. Tiwari, Pandey, and Singh (2012) highlight the elevated prevalence of mental health problems among older adults residing in old age homes or experiencing social disconnection. Interventions like participation in community groups, volunteering, or engaging in group activities can enhance social support and purpose. Such social engagement fosters connections, mitigates feelings of loneliness, and promotes mental well-being.

Culturally sensitive care involves understanding individual preferences, dietary habits, and social norms. The American cultural context, for example, typically permits flexible dietary choices, but some restrictions are necessary for health. Older adults should be encouraged to adopt balanced diets emphasizing high fiber, calcium-rich foods, and low-fat options, aligning with American dietary practices. Exercise environments should be safe and accessible, avoiding areas with potential hazards or social discomfort, such as inappropriate recreational spaces. Social activities should be suited to their preferences and safety to maximize participation.

Implementing these modifications requires a multidisciplinary approach, including healthcare providers, dietitians, and community organizations, collaborating to develop personalized care plans. Educating older adults on nutrition, physical activity, and social participation is vital for empowering them to sustain independence and quality of life. It also involves addressing barriers such as limited mobility, financial constraints, and environmental factors, tailoring interventions to their unique cultural and individual contexts.

In conclusion, optimum care for the elderly integrates physiological management through diet and exercise, psychosocial engagement to combat social isolation, and culturally sensitive practices. Such holistic care ensures older adults remain active, healthy, and socially connected, leading to improved health outcomes and a better quality of life. Future research and policy should continue to focus on developing accessible programs that promote age-appropriate activities and nutrition, respecting cultural diversity and individual preferences for aging populations worldwide.

References

• Govindaraju, T., Sahle, B. W., McCaffrey, T. A., McNeil, J. J., & Owen, A. J. (2018). Dietary patterns and quality of life in older adults: A systematic review. Nutrients, 10(8), 971.
• Tiwari, S. C., Pandey, N. M., & Singh, I. (2012). Mental health problems among inhabitants of old age homes: A preliminary study. Indian Journal of Psychiatry, 54(2), 144.
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• Moyle, W., & Simmons, D. (2018). Therapeutic interventions for social isolation and loneliness in older adults: A systematic review. Australian & New Zealand Journal of Public Health, 42(4), 330-339.
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