1. Psychosocial Changes in Aging
Eldercare 2015
Psychosocial Changes in Aging

2. Defense Mechanisms
Western Societies believe elders have less significance
People who are now elderly grew up believing this- so they reject themselves
Projection: accuse others of their own issue
Displacing: replacing with false object
Rationalizing: make up excuses for actions
Compensation: make up for “old age”
Denial: deny anything is wrong
Withdrawal: isolate them self

3. Emotional Adjustment Personality Traits Become more pronounced
Roles the elderly assume and the roles expected by society come into conflict
Resident thinks he can dress himself, but young RN gives too much assistance: CONFLICT

4. Emotional Adjustment Change in circumstances = change in emotions
Personality characteristics are an extension of what they were in youth
Some traits have been concealed because they wanted to make a good impression
Now they feel it is no longer necessary to hide jealousy and insecurity

5. Self-Image Old age brings losses
Each influences the way a person perceives themselves
Work is linked with one’s view of self
In retirement, where will this come from?
Physical Ailments
Loss of vitality

6. Self-Image Many elders contribute to community through Volunteer Work
White Females were most active
Most work with peers
Some work with youths
Health Services
Religious Work
The most effective way is becoming a Role Model

7. Successful Psychological Adjustment
Aging is a natural, progressive step in life
Recognize the strength of wisdom
Recognize the limitations of the body
Interest in the here-and-now

8. Unsuccessful Psychological Adjustment
Hostility
Anxiety
Self-punishment
Defensive reactions
Sensitiveness
Aggressiveness

9. Mental Function
In relatively healthy elders, frustration levels are common to those experienced by teens
Desire for freedom vs. Desire for security
These are both driven by Fear
All people need:
Basic needs (food, shelter)
Security (safety)
Emotional Connections (love)

10. Sexuality Hindered by:
Loss of a partner
Limited opportunities
Society’s attitude
Previous attitudes toward sexuality will carry through into old age