Chapter 3: Theories of Aging

Programmed Aging Theory

- "Biological clock is ticking" - Cells have a pre-determined lifespan

Biological Theories of Aging

- "Senescence" - Complex, interactive, process of change - Changes effect functioning & longevity - When biological changes are visible, we are experiencing aging.

Activity Theory

- 1st Generation - As a person ages, it is important to continue physical activity to "stay young"

Role Theory

- 1st Generation - Stay active to stay young. Adjust to aging. - When one role is completed replace it with another. - What you do now, is what you will be able to do.

Disengagement Theory

- 2nd Generation - Withdraw and allow power to transfer to the younger population. - Necessary for maintenance of social equilibrium. - "I want you to have this."

Continuity Theory

- 2nd Generation - Similar to the activity theory - Individuals develop and maintain a consistent pattern of behavior over a lifetime. - Ex: Dementia Pt - use their own furniture & 'shadow boxes'.

Feminist Theory

- 3rd Generation - Stories and lives of women have not been adequately told.

Critical Theory

- 3rd Generation - Understand the individual and their story. - Not simply stating, "Thats how things are."

PostModernest Theory

- 3rd Generation - Life and meaning are socially constructed. - Against stereotyping and ageism.

Age-Stratification Theory

- Aging can be best understood by considering the experiences of individuals as members of cohorts with similarities to others in the same group. - Ex: Exercise program accommodated for 65 y.o., 75 y.o., 85 y.o.

Social Exchange Theory

- Takes an economic perspective - As one ages, one has fewer and fewer economic resources to contribute to society - Leads to a loss of social status, self-esteem, and political power.

Minimize Potential for Infection:

1. Hand washing 2. Immunizations 3. Avoid ill people

Autoimmune Theory

Aging is a result of an accumulation of damage as a result of changes in activities and functions of the immune system. There is a decreased ability of lymphocytes to withstand oxidative stress. The best way to prevent illness: hand hygiene, sun screen use, and immunizations.

Antioxidant Use & Aging

High doses of antioxidants can be harmful. They can increase lung cancer in smokers. Vitamin E increases the older adults chance of stroke. If mixed with warfarin, vitamin E can cause increased bleeding. It is important to follow appropriate dosing and avoid mega vitamins.

Epigenetic

How genes are influenced by environment, life-style, and other factors.

Theory

Hypothesis or educated guess.

Modernization Theory

Non-material aspects: labor and knowledge are no longer useful. It is the social changes that occur because of a decrease in the contributions of the elders.

Oxidative Stress Theory

Oxygen plays a role in aging. When there is ample oxygen, there are healthier cells and cellular replication.

Cellular Functioning & Aging

Replication of DNA & RNA. Cells become more and more complex over time.

Free Radical Theory

There is a problem with RNA & DNA metabolism and replication.

Theoretical Groundedness

Underpinning of nursing care, the theory that we believe in and use to critically think and administer care.

Third Generation Theories of Aging

Understand the human meanings of social life in context of everyday life rather than the explanation of facts.

Gerotranscendence Theory

Withdraw for a time in order to self-reflect, explore inner self, and contemplate the meaning of life. Time, relationships, and superficial things are not as important.

Erikson's Theory of Generatively

Person is concerned beyond self and establishes/contributes to society in meaningful ways.

Erikson's Theory of Stagnation

Self focus during midlife causes someone to be restricted.

Erikson's Theory of Despair

Sense that one's self no longer has a purpose in life, physically or mentally. It is a feeling of regret, "I should have done that..."

External Factors & Aging

1. Environment Pollutants 2. Second-hand Smoke 3. Radiation 4. High Pollution Areas

Erikson's Theory of Ego Integrity

Attain sense of completeness and cohesion of self. It is a level of satisfaction and wholeness.

Wear-and-Tear Theory

Cellular errors were the result of wearing out.

Error Theory

Changes at a cellular level are random and unpredictable: - Wear-and-Tear - Oxidative Stress - Free Radical

First Generation Theories of Aging

Focus on adjustment.

Second Generation Theory of Aging

Expanded on and questioned the 1st Generation theories.

Stress & Aging

Stress consumes energy. Energy consumes oxygen. This process interferes with the autoimmune system.

Mutations

Study of DNA replication. This suggests that mitochondrial damage results in aging rather than oxidative stress and free radical theory.