Geriatric Nursing: Theories of Aging

NUR 145 Sandy Mishkin, RN,BC, MSN, Med

2008

Biologic Theories

Explain the physical changes of aging, the gradual loss of function over time
Programmed Theory: genetically programmed deterioration, the biologic clock Run-Out-Of-Program Theory: limited genetic material that runs out Gene Theory: activation of harmful genes

Biologic Theories
Error Theory: Errors in RNA protein synthesis cause cell dysfunction Somatic Mutation Theory: DNA damage leads to chromosome abnormalities Free Radical Theory: Free radicals cause cell damage Crosslink/Connective Tissue Theory: Cell molecules from DNA and connective tissue interact with free radicals to reduce the ability of tissue to regenerate

Biologic Theories
Clinker Theory: Chemicals from metabolism accumulate in cells, resulting in cell damage Wear-And-Tear Theory: Internal and external stressors damage body components over time Neuroendocrine Theory: Dysfunction of the hypothalamus in regulating endocrine activity, causing age-related changes

Biologic Theories
Immunologic Theory: Weakening of the immune system leads to increased disease Calorie Intake Theory: Low calorie diet combined with high nutrient intake and exercise leads to metabolic efficiency

Psychosocial Theories

Explain the variability in aging among older adults

Disengagement Theory: Society distances itself from the older person and the older person chooses to disengage from society Activity Theory: Physical and mental activity preserve function

Psychosocial Theories

Life-Course Theories
Best known to nursing Eriksons Theory: Eight stages of development Havighursts Theory: Delineates specific tasks for late life Newmans Theory: Four tasks of aging Jungs Theory: Life as a continuous search for true self

References

Wold, G. (2004). Basic geriatric nursing (4th ed.). St. Louis: Mosby.