1. Chapter 2 Theories of Aging

2. Terms to Know Aging: the process of growing older that begins at birth
Nonstochastic theories: explain biological aging as resulting from a complex, predetermined process
Stochastic theories: view the effects of biological aging as resulting from random assaults from both the internal and external environment

3. Introduction
No single known factor causes or prevents aging; no one theory can explain the complexities of aging.
Theories of aging offer varying degrees of universality, validity, and reliability.
Research efforts aim toward better understanding of aging process to guide health and postpone negative consequences.

4. Biological Theories of Aging
Biological aging differs from species to species.
No two individuals age identically.
Theorists divide the many factors, both internal and external of human body, into two categories: stochastic and nonstochastic.

5. Stochastic Theories Cross-linking theory
Free radicals and lipofuscin theories
Wear and tear theories
Evolutionary theories
Mutation accumulation theory
Antagonistic pleiotropy theory
Disposable soma theory
Biogerontology

6. Nonstochastic Theories
Apoptosis
Genetic theories
Autoimmune reactions
Changes in immune function with aging
Neuroendocrine and neurochemical theories
Radiation theories
Nutrition theories
Environmental theories

7. Question
Which statement best describes the autoimmune theory of aging?
Genetic programs determine life expectancy.
Cells undergo change, and the body identifies them as foreign.
Organs decline as a result of cellular mutations.
Failure of the production of a growth substance causes aging cells to die.

8. Answer
B. Cells undergo change, and the body identifies them as foreign.
Rationale: One hypothesis regarding the role of autoimmune reactions in the aging process is that the cells undergo changes with age, and the body misidentifies these aged, irregular cells as foreign agents and develops a plan to attack them.

9. Question Is the following statement true or false?
The genetic theories of aging best describe how and why a person ages.

10. Answer
False
Rationale: No single factor causes or prevents aging; therefore, it is unrealistic to think that one theory can explain the complexities of the aging process.

11. Sociologic Theories of Aging
Explore mental processes, behaviors, and feelings throughout life span
Disengagement theory
Activity theory
Continuity theory
Subculture theory
Age stratification theory

12. Question Is the following statement true or false?
The continuity theory of aging states that personality and basic patterns of behavior are said to remain unchanged as the individual ages.

13. Answer
True
Rationale: The continuity theory of aging relates personality and predisposition toward certain actions in old age to similar factors during other phases of the life cycle. For instance, activists at 20 years of age will most likely be activists at 70 years of age.

14. Psychological and Nursing Theories of Aging
Psychological Theories:
Explore mental processes, behavior, and feelings through life span
Developmental tasks
Gerotranscendence
Nursing Theory- Functional Consequences Theory and Theory of Thriving

15. Applying Theories of Aging to Nursing Practice
Biological, psychological, and social processes of aging interrelated.
No single theory can adequately explain the aging process.
Knowledge of all theories can guide nursing interventions to promote health and longevity.
Nurses assist older adults in experiencing health, fulfillment, and sense of well-being.