PAGE 7

Page 7

Psychosocial Changes

Older patients face numerous psychosocial challenges. Loss of significant relationships through death of a spouse, friends, or family members is common. Many elders also must adjust to retirement, which may mean reduced income. Loss of a sense of control over decision-making often accompanies loss of health because of the attitudes of family and caregivers (Barba, Tesh, & DeBrew, 2005). Often relocation from the family home is necessary because declining health leads to functional limitations. Personality does not change as people age, although some aspects of personality may appear exaggerated (Miller, 2004). The ability to cope is influenced by individual coping styles and maturity level. Social support, financial assets, social status, self-esteem, and religious beliefs also influence how the elderly deal with stressful life events (Antonucci, 2001). Depression is the most common psychiatric problem, and substance abuse and anxiety disorders are also seen in the elderly population (Hall, Hall, & Chapman, 2003). Overall, however, older patients are likely to accommodate to the situation at hand, and they are usually accepting of the authority of health care professionals (Miller, 2004). Clinical Alert. Be sensitive to older patients’ fears and anxieties about loss of health and functional abilities. Explain all procedures carefully and patiently. Understand that instructions may need to be repeated because anxiety combined with sensory changes can influence older patients’ comprehension. Encourage family caregivers to be present, if appropriate.

References

Administration on Aging., & U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2004). Statistics, Retrieved from, http:// www.aoa.dhhs.gov/prof/Statistics/statistics.asp, May 1, 2006.

Antonucci, T.C. (2001). Social relations: An examination of social networks, social support, and sense of control. Birren, J.E.Schaie, K.W. Handbook of the psychology of aging (5th ed.). San Diego, CA: Academic Press, pp. 427-453.

Barba, B.E., Tesh, A.S., & DeBrew, J. (2005). The hospitalized older adult: A teaching manual for

geriatric nursing care. Greensboro, NC: The University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Bettmann, M.A. (2004). Frequently asked questions: Iodinated contrast agents. Radiographics, 24(Suppl. 1), S3-S10.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10