Older adults face complex challenges and unique adaptions that develop and must overcome as they age. There are alterations in almost every body system that will affect the overall health and physical appearance of the older adult. Nurses who care for older adult clients have an opportunity to help promote optimal quality of life and educate them about how to manage the expected changes that come with end of life. Through learning about the obstacles that come with aging, I will take away ways that I can better care for members of this age group.

            Compassion and patience are essential characteristics that nurses should have when caring for older adults. It is important that you open your mind to understand what life is like in their shoes. They do not have the same physical capability as younger adults and do not function the way they used to which can be frustrating for both the patient and the nurse or caregiver. They’re mind may be completely clear and it is just their body that cannot move the way they use to. It is important for individuals caring for older adults to understand that the physical declines that they may experience can be extremely frustrating.

            Another takeaway that I adopted for when taking care of older adults is to promote independence. Maintaining independence helps to maintain a healthy mindset and provide a sense of purpose. This will help them to reach Erikson’s final stage, Integrity vs Despair, which is essential in this age group. Modifications can be implemented in order to address safety concerns but also allow older adults to do more tasks independently. With proper care of older adults, quality of life and outcomes of these individuals could be more positive.