Chapter 12 Connecting With Self

Definition and Dimensions of Self The personal identity an individual possesses. Dimensions Body: physical characteristics and functioning. Mind: cognition, perceptions, and emotions. Spirit: meaning and purpose derived from relationship with God or higher power.

Factors Affecting Development of Self Genetic makeup Family composition and dynamics Roles; education Environment Religious experiences Relationships Culture; ethnicity Lifestyle and health practices

Fostering Self-Reflection Life Review Intentionally reflecting on past experiences, to resolve troublesome or traumatic life events and assess one’s life in totality. Journaling The process of writing often facilitates self-reflection. Writing Letters and E-Mails Letters are another means to reflect and express feelings.

Fostering Self-Reflection (cont.) Oral History Dictating into a tape recorder can prove to be a beneficial alternative to writing. Art Painting, sculpting, weaving, and other forms of creative expression can facilitate self-reflection and expression.

Survivor Competencies of Aging Adults Assumption of responsibility for self-care responsibilities. Mobilization of internal and external resources to solve problems and manage crises. Development of support system; sense of control over life events. Adaptation to change. Perseverance in the face of obstacles and difficulties. Recovery from trauma.

Survivor Competencies of Aging Adults (cont.) Realization and acceptance of reality that life includes positive and negative events. Discovery of meaning in life events. Determination to fulfill expectations despite difficulties and distractions. Recognition of limitations and competencies. Ability to trust, love and forgive, and accept trust, love and forgiveness.

Facilitating Empowerment of Older Patients Including elders in care planning and caregiving. Offering choices. Equipping elders for maximum self-care. Advocating for elders. Offering feedback, positive reinforcement, and support. Fostering hope in elders.

Fostering Hope in Elders Honoring the value of their lives. Assisting in establishing goals. Supporting the use of coping strategies. Building on capabilities. Displaying an optimistic, caring attitude. Supporting elders in their spiritual activities.

Components of Sexuality Love Warmth Caring Sharing between people The identification with a sexual role.

Sexual Roles Today’s elders were socialized into masculine and feminine roles: Men were to be aggressive, independent, and strong. Women were to be pretty, gentle, and dependent on their male counterparts. The socialization of today’s older population and their role expectations must be respected.

Examples of Lack of Respect for Sexuality Belittling elders’ interest in clothing, cosmetics, and hair styles. Dressing men and women residents of an institution in similar asexual clothing. Denying a woman’s request for a female aide to bathe her. Forgetting to button, zip, or fasten clothing when dressing the elderly. Unnecessarily exposing older individuals during examination or care activities.

Examples of Lack of Respect for Sexuality (cont.) Discussing incontinent episodes when the involved individual’s peers are present. Ignoring a man’s desire to be cleaned and shaved before his female friend visits. Not recognizing attempts by older adults to look attractive. Joking about two senior citizens’ interest in and flirtation with each other.

Importance of a Sexual History for Elders It demonstrates recognition, acceptance, and respect for the sexuality of older adults. It provides an excellent framework for launching discussions of sexuality. It identifies physical, emotional, and social threats to elderly’s sexuality and intimacy and provides solutions. It promotes practices that can enhance sexual function.

Encouraging Sexuality in the Elderly Recognize, respect, and encourage sexuality in the elderly. Act as a role model to foster positive attitudes. Improve understanding and increase sensitivity to help the older population realize their full potential of sexuality.

Menopause Definition A naturally occurring process, not a disease, characterized by the absence of menstrual periods for at least 12 consecutive months. Menopause Is a Gradual Process Most women experience perimenopause about 3-6 years before menopause when menstrual periods permanently cease.

Menopause (cont.) Menopause Is a Multi-Hormone Process In addition to estrogen, progesterone declines although not in direct proportion.

Hormonal Replacement Therapy Benefits of HRT Can control unpleasant symptoms that fosters a good quality of life, reduces the risk of colon cancer and heart disease, and possibly offers protection against Alzheimer’s disease and stroke. Risks of HRT An increased risk of ovarian, lung, and certain breast cancers, blood clots, and gallbladder disease.

Source Eliopoulos, C. (2005).  Gerontological Nursing, (6th ed.).  Philadelphia: Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins (ISBN 0-7817-4428-8).