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| === What is it? === | === What is it? === | ||
| - | There are multiple aspects included in the social perspective of caring for an aging relative. Throughout the stages of life, everyone experiences multiple changes to their social roles and relationships<ref name="Berk"/><ref name="Bjor"/>. In elderly people, these changes can include the pruning of relationships down to a small group of people whom they are closest to and feel are most important in their life<ref name="Berk">Berk, L. E. (2010). ''Exploring lifespan development'' (2nd ed.). Boston, MA: Allyn & Bacon.</ref><ref name="Bjor">Bjorklund, B. R. (2011). ''The journey of adulthood'' (7th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall</ref>. It can also include social role changes chosen by the elder such as becoming a volunteer or being a significant role in their grandchildren’s lives<ref name="Bjor"/>. Or role changes that are not so positive and not explicitly selected by the older adult | + | There are multiple aspects included in the social perspective of caring for an aging relative. Throughout the stages of life, everyone experiences multiple changes to their social roles and relationships<ref name="Berk"/><ref name="Bjor"/>. In elderly people, these changes can include the pruning of relationships down to a small group of people whom they are closest to and feel are most important in their life<ref name="Berk">Berk, L. E. (2010). ''Exploring lifespan development'' (2nd ed.). Boston, MA: Allyn & Bacon.</ref><ref name="Bjor">Bjorklund, B. R. (2011). ''The journey of adulthood'' (7th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall</ref>. It can also include social role changes chosen by the elder such as becoming a volunteer or being a significant role in their grandchildren’s lives<ref name="Bjor"/>. Or it may include role changes that are not so positive and not explicitly selected by the older adult, for example, being widowed or becoming a care receiver<ref name="Bjor"/>. |
| - | Different types of people will react to all of these social transitions in various ways. It is very important | + | Different types of people will react to all of these social transitions in various ways. It is very important as a caregiver to recognize and be aware when an elderly adult is not adjusting well to these changes. |
| === Warning Signs and Signs for Intervention === | === Warning Signs and Signs for Intervention === | ||
| - | There are several warning signs to look for when determining if an elderly relative is having | + | There are several warning signs to look for when determining if an elderly relative is having difficulties adapting to the social changes in his or her life. Feelings of hopelessness and emptiness, withdrawal from close relationships as well as showing unresponsive and depressive behaviours can be a sign of the need for social intervention<ref name="Berk"/><ref name="Cat">Cattan, M., White, M., Bond, J. & Learmouth, A. (2005). Preventing social isolation and loneliness among older people: a systematic review of health promotion interventions. ''Ageing & Society, 25,'' 41-67. </ref><ref name="Rou">Routassalo, P., & Pitkala, K. H. (2003). Loneliness among older people. ''Reviews in Clinical Gerontology, 13,'' 303-311.</ref>. The two important warning signs that your aging relative needs social intervention are feelings of loneliness and social isolation<ref name="Shi">Shiovitz-Ezra, S. & Leitsch, S. A. (2010). The role of social relationships in predicting loneliness: The national social life, health, and aging project. ''SocialWork Research, 34,'' 157-167.</ref>. |
| - | Loneliness and social isolation in old age have shown multiple consequences in various studies. Both have been linked to higher blood pressure, elevated risks for depression and poor mental health<ref name="Shi"/><ref name="Rou"/>. They have also | + | Loneliness and social isolation in old age have shown multiple consequences in various studies. Both have been linked to higher blood pressure, elevated risks for depression and poor mental health<ref name="Shi"/><ref name="Rou"/>. They have also been shown to be predictors of mortality, thoughts of suicide and suicide<ref name="Shi"/><ref name="Rou"/>. Therefore, it is extremely important to be aware of, and know how to implement prevention and treatment techniques to inhibit further harm to the well being of an elderly relative. |
| === Prevention and Treatment === | === Prevention and Treatment === | ||
| - | In order for an older adult to stay mentally and physically stable in later life, they need to have strong social support | + | In order for an older adult to stay mentally and physically stable in later life, they need to have strong social support from family members or friends. It is important to keep in mind that even if an elderly person has plenty of friends and family surrounding him or her, they can still be lonely. Loneliness is not to be confused with aloneness. One can still feel lonely even if they are surrounded by groups of people<ref name="Rou"/><ref name="Shi"/>. Loneliness is described as a painful and unpleasant experience that, as stated earlier, can lead to multiple consequences if it is not intervened<ref name="Shi"/>. Studies have shown that the quantity of relationships has little to do with feelings of loneliness and social isolation. However, the quality or perceived social support has a great affect on reducing these feelings<ref name="Berk"/><ref name="Shi"/>. Emphasis should be put on trying to improve the quality of the relationship between the older adult and their peers or relatives in order to prevent loneliness<ref name="Shi"/>. |
| - | There are a few ways to intervene and help an elderly relative to reduce the pain of loneliness. The first class of interventions are at the individual level. These would involve things such as one-on-one contact, whether it be via phone, visits with family or professionals<ref name="Shi"/>. The next class of interventions are classified at the group level. These could include programs the older adult gets together with other peole their age over something they all enjoy, for example a knitting class, or social lunches <ref name="Shi"/>. The third class are at the environmental level. These interventions could include teaching the older adult how to use a computer for communication and online video chat programs, which would enable them to connect with friends and relatives that may not live close by. The environmental level could also include providing transport | + | There are a few ways to intervene and help an elderly relative to reduce the pain of loneliness. The first class of interventions are at the individual level. These would involve things such as one-on-one contact, whether it be via phone, visits with family or professionals<ref name="Shi"/>. The next class of interventions are classified at the group level. These could include programs where the older adult gets together with other peole their age over something they all enjoy, for example, a knitting class, or social lunches <ref name="Shi"/>. The third class are at the environmental level. These interventions could include teaching the older adult how to use a computer for communication and online video chat programs, which would enable them to connect with friends and relatives that may not live close by. The environmental level could also include providing transport to remove the common obstacle for elderly adults of not being able to get around<ref name="Shi"/>. |
| [[image:old.jpg|right|200|300]] | [[image:old.jpg|right|200|300]] | ||
| - | Out of all of these interventions types, it has been suggested that group level interventions are the most effective, particularly group interventions that facilitate educational and social support<ref name="Cat"/> | + | Out of all of these interventions types, it has been suggested that group level interventions are the most effective, particularly group interventions that facilitate educational and social support<ref name="Cat"/>. |
| === Adapting to the New Lifestyle === | === Adapting to the New Lifestyle === | ||
| - | The best way to help an elderly relative adjust to their lifestyle, and to keep them socially involved would be to implement the idea of day programs, classes or social activities. There are many opportunities in the Niagara area for an elderly adult to get involved. The Niagara Region website<ref name="Niagara">Niagara Region 2011, Seniors. Community programs for seniors. Retrieved from http://www.regional.niagara.on.ca/living/seniors/programs/default.aspx</ref> has a list of locations and activities that older people may potentially participate in[http://www.regional.niagara.on.ca/living/seniors/programs/adult-day-service.aspx]. They also provide a lot of information with regards to long-term programs for elderly adults as well as social and mental support for the caregiver themselves[http://www.regional.niagara.on.ca/living/seniors/programs/default.aspx]. | + | The best way to help an elderly relative adjust to their lifestyle, and to keep them socially involved, would be to implement the idea of day programs, classes or social activities. There are many opportunities in the Niagara area for an elderly adult to get involved. The Niagara Region website<ref name="Niagara">Niagara Region 2011, Seniors. Community programs for seniors. Retrieved from http://www.regional.niagara.on.ca/living/seniors/programs/default.aspx</ref> has a list of locations and activities that older people may potentially participate in[http://www.regional.niagara.on.ca/living/seniors/programs/adult-day-service.aspx]. They also provide a lot of information with regards to long-term programs for elderly adults as well as social and mental support for the caregiver themselves[http://www.regional.niagara.on.ca/living/seniors/programs/default.aspx]. |
Revision as of 22:07, 2 November 2011
Contents |
Psychological
What is it?
Warning Signs and Signs for Intervention
Prevention & Treatment
Adapting to the New Lifestyle
Physical
What is it?
With the increasing average age of the population comes an increase in the need for more caregivers. Caring for an aging relative can pose serious health concerns for the caregiver [1][2]. Caregivers spend a significant amount of time caring for their aging relative, which causes large amounts of stress [3]. Adults who share a home with their ill parents experience the most stress [1]. Stress is increased especially with those who care for relatives with some form of cognitive impairment, such as Dementia [4]. Moreover, need for adult care can arise suddenly, after a heart attack, fall, stroke or cancer; the little time for preparation can cause more stress than usual [1]. Stress can lead to a variety of other health-related problems, such as increased weight, compromised immune function and lower levels of overall physical health [2]. Furthermore, caregivers are less likely to exercise or follow a nutritious diet, get adequate sleep, take time to rest when ill, or remember to take their medication in comparison to people who are not caregivers [2]. Not only do the caregivers experience elevated levels of stress but caregiving can also lead to exhaustion, inability to concentrate, anxiety about aging themselves and depression [1]. If the caregiver is not able to adequately take care of themselves as well as their aging relative it can lead to an overall diminished health.
Warning Signs and Signs for Intervention
Everyone needs caregivers as they age since there are normal cognitive declines associated with aging. However, relatives who acquire Dementia or other cognitive impairments will need the most care, and cause the most stress on their caregiver [4]. Early and accurate diagnosis of Dementia can help the caregivers plan out how they are going to care for their relative, so it is very important to go to the doctor on a regular basis [5]. Doctors will be able to spot the warning signs for Dementia or other cognitive impairments and be able to work with the caregiver to plan strategies for coping. Though it is possible for doctors to spot signs of Dementia, the accuracy of their ability to do so varies considerably [4].
Prevention & Treatment
In order to prevent abnormal cognitive declines such as Dementia, there are steps that one can take. Some risk factors for Dementia are diabetes, high cholesterol, heart disease and hypertension [2]. By going to see the doctor on a regular basis you can keep these factors under control and therefore they will be less likely to contribute to contracting Dementia. Dementia can also be caused by smoking or a lack of vitamin B12; if you do not smoke and receive shots if you have low vitamin B12, it can prevent Dementia [2]. Currently there is not a cure for Dementia; however, there are medications which offer symptomatic relief. Aricept is a common drug to help with the Alzheimer’s form of Dementia. It helps increase memory and learning, which normally would decrease without the drug [2].
Adapting to the New Lifestyle
Adapting to caring for an aging relative can be very stressful, however, there are steps that be taken in order to lessen the physical stress that is put on the body. To relieve the stress that is caused by caring for an aging relative, you can use effective coping strategies, such as delegating responsibilities to other family members or trying to get the caregiver to reinterpret the situation in a positive way [1]. This can be effective in lessening the stress placed on the caregiver. Seeking social support, making use of community resources or pressing for workplace and public policies that relieve the emotional and financial burdens of caring for an aging parent are also effective strategies that can be used by the caregiver [1]. Research on stress has found that social support can also relieve stress [6]. Having people to help you with the care of the aging relative and an increase in the frequency of these people helping are factors which are also found to reduce stress levels (Vitaliano, 1991). If caregivers have a good relationship with their practitioners, it can also reduce stress and in turn reduce negative physical symptoms associated with stress [3]. A tool called the Family Caregivers Support Agreement (FCSA) can be used to facilitate the relationship between caregivers and practitioners [3]. The FCSA is designed to address the needs and support services in order to meet the caregiver’s expectations [3]. It has been shown that a tool, such as the FCSA, enhances a partnership atmosphere and as a result decreases the stress on the caregiver [3].
Social
What is it?
There are multiple aspects included in the social perspective of caring for an aging relative. Throughout the stages of life, everyone experiences multiple changes to their social roles and relationships[1][2]. In elderly people, these changes can include the pruning of relationships down to a small group of people whom they are closest to and feel are most important in their life[1][2]. It can also include social role changes chosen by the elder such as becoming a volunteer or being a significant role in their grandchildren’s lives[2]. Or it may include role changes that are not so positive and not explicitly selected by the older adult, for example, being widowed or becoming a care receiver[2].
Different types of people will react to all of these social transitions in various ways. It is very important as a caregiver to recognize and be aware when an elderly adult is not adjusting well to these changes.
Warning Signs and Signs for Intervention
There are several warning signs to look for when determining if an elderly relative is having difficulties adapting to the social changes in his or her life. Feelings of hopelessness and emptiness, withdrawal from close relationships as well as showing unresponsive and depressive behaviours can be a sign of the need for social intervention[1][7][8]. The two important warning signs that your aging relative needs social intervention are feelings of loneliness and social isolation[9].
Loneliness and social isolation in old age have shown multiple consequences in various studies. Both have been linked to higher blood pressure, elevated risks for depression and poor mental health[9][8]. They have also been shown to be predictors of mortality, thoughts of suicide and suicide[9][8]. Therefore, it is extremely important to be aware of, and know how to implement prevention and treatment techniques to inhibit further harm to the well being of an elderly relative.
Prevention and Treatment
In order for an older adult to stay mentally and physically stable in later life, they need to have strong social support from family members or friends. It is important to keep in mind that even if an elderly person has plenty of friends and family surrounding him or her, they can still be lonely. Loneliness is not to be confused with aloneness. One can still feel lonely even if they are surrounded by groups of people[8][9]. Loneliness is described as a painful and unpleasant experience that, as stated earlier, can lead to multiple consequences if it is not intervened[9]. Studies have shown that the quantity of relationships has little to do with feelings of loneliness and social isolation. However, the quality or perceived social support has a great affect on reducing these feelings[1][9]. Emphasis should be put on trying to improve the quality of the relationship between the older adult and their peers or relatives in order to prevent loneliness[9].
There are a few ways to intervene and help an elderly relative to reduce the pain of loneliness. The first class of interventions are at the individual level. These would involve things such as one-on-one contact, whether it be via phone, visits with family or professionals[9]. The next class of interventions are classified at the group level. These could include programs where the older adult gets together with other peole their age over something they all enjoy, for example, a knitting class, or social lunches [9]. The third class are at the environmental level. These interventions could include teaching the older adult how to use a computer for communication and online video chat programs, which would enable them to connect with friends and relatives that may not live close by. The environmental level could also include providing transport to remove the common obstacle for elderly adults of not being able to get around[9].
Out of all of these interventions types, it has been suggested that group level interventions are the most effective, particularly group interventions that facilitate educational and social support[7].
Adapting to the New Lifestyle
The best way to help an elderly relative adjust to their lifestyle, and to keep them socially involved, would be to implement the idea of day programs, classes or social activities. There are many opportunities in the Niagara area for an elderly adult to get involved. The Niagara Region website[10] has a list of locations and activities that older people may potentially participate in[1]. They also provide a lot of information with regards to long-term programs for elderly adults as well as social and mental support for the caregiver themselves[2].
Notes and References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.7 1.8 1.9 Berk, L. E. (2010). Exploring lifespan development (2nd ed.). Boston, MA: Allyn & Bacon.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7 2.8 2.9 Bjorklund, B. R. (2011). The journey of adulthood (7th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 Levesque, L., Ducharme, F., Caron, C., Hansen, E., Magnusson, L., Nolan, J., & Nolan M. (2010). A partnership approach to service needs assessment with family caregivers of an aging relative living at home: A qualitative analysis of the experiences of caregivers and practitioners. International Journey of Nursing Studies, 47 (7), 876-887.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 Fisher, G.G., Franks, M.M., Plassman, B.L., Brown, S.L., Potter, G.G., Llewellyn, D., Rogers, M.A.M, & Langa, K.M. (2011). Caring for individuals with Dementia and Cognitive Impairment, Not Dementia: Findings from the aging, demographics, and memory study. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, 59 (3), 488-494.
- ↑ Milne, A.J., Woolford, H.H. Mason, J., & Hatzidimitriadou, E. (2000). Early diagnosis of Dementia by GPs: An exploratory study of attitudes. Aging and Mental Health, 4 (4), 292-300.
- ↑ Vitaliano, P.P., Russo, J., Young, H.M., Teri, L., & Maiuro, R.D. (1991). Psychology and Aging, 6 (3), 392-402.
- ↑ 7.0 7.1 Cattan, M., White, M., Bond, J. & Learmouth, A. (2005). Preventing social isolation and loneliness among older people: a systematic review of health promotion interventions. Ageing & Society, 25, 41-67.
- ↑ 8.0 8.1 8.2 8.3 Routassalo, P., & Pitkala, K. H. (2003). Loneliness among older people. Reviews in Clinical Gerontology, 13, 303-311.
- ↑ 9.0 9.1 9.2 9.3 9.4 9.5 9.6 9.7 9.8 9.9 Shiovitz-Ezra, S. & Leitsch, S. A. (2010). The role of social relationships in predicting loneliness: The national social life, health, and aging project. SocialWork Research, 34, 157-167.
- ↑ Niagara Region 2011, Seniors. Community programs for seniors. Retrieved from http://www.regional.niagara.on.ca/living/seniors/programs/default.aspx
Kr09an 13:33, 2 November 2011 (EDT)
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