SHN6022: Valued Ageing Assessment 2 Case Study

Introduction - Exploring Ann's Health, Social, and Psychological Issues in Valued Ageing

This portfolio examines the various aspects of ageing by taking a close look at the case study of Ann, an 81-year-old woman who lives in a remote area with her devoted companion Margaret. This assessment explores the medical, psychological, and social elements of ageing against the backdrop of Ann's story that includes living alone being a widow and recently beating myeloma after two years of treatment. This assessment serves as a witness to our dedication to critically engaging with and analysing the theories and literature surrounding the ageing process in order to better inform health and social care practises for older people.

Section 2: Biological Issues

Biological issue faced by the Ann

At the age of 81, Ann faces a number of severe biological issues that need to be carefully considered (Leso, Fontana and Iavicoli, 2021). At this point, she has had a discernible deterioration in her physical health that is demonstrated by the fact that she has lost a stone and a half in weight and become fragile, as well as lost the majority of her front teeth. Furthermore, the natural ageing process is a phenomenon that is characterised by changes in body composition decreasing bone density and concerns regarding oral health. These difficulties might be closely linked to the natural ageing process. The biological complexity that Ann must deal with can be better understood through the lens of the physiological theories of ageing, such as the programmed cell death theory and the wear and tear theory (Khadeejah Alsolami, 2023). Comprehending these beliefs enables us to investigate the natural changes that the body experiences with ageing and more importantly the way these changes can be mitigated to achieve happy ageing.

At eighty-one, Ann is adjusting to the normal ageing process and physiological theories offer a framework for comprehending the changes her body is going through. According to the “wear and tear theory”, the body gradually loses physical function as a result of accumulated damage (Wang, 2021). Hence, this notion may apply to Ann's situation in that her fight with myeloma-related medications and the natural ageing process may have all contributed to her fragility and general health decline.

Life style factors

Another important factor that has contributed to Ann's physical health issues is her lifestyle. Her nutritional choices may have been influenced by her rural residence that may have led to weight loss. Additionally, her general physical health may be impacted by her lack of regular exercise and any barriers to receiving healthcare services. Furthermore, understanding that lifestyle decisions affect health outcomes is crucial to creating comprehensive plans for healthy ageing (Wickramasinghe et al., 2020). Therefore, it has been perceived that numerous lifestyle behaviours have been linked to psychological well-being (PWB) such as social interaction, physical activity, smoking, alcohol use, and dietary choices. Lifestyle risk factors, including smoking, poor diet, excessive alcohol consumption and physical inactivity have been linked to increased rates of cardiovascular disease (CVD) morbidity and all-cause death. Hence, in the case of Ann, Ann's lifestyle has been greatly influenced by her rural surroundings. In rural places, limited access to amenities and healthcare resources can have an impact on possibilities for exercise, dietary choices, and general health management. The dearth of available services in the area might make it more difficult for Ann to get prompt interventions and routine medical checkups that could accelerate the development of her health problems. However, Ann's weight loss of 1.5 stones in the last year raises the possibility of difficulties in adhering to a healthy balanced diet. Moreover, Ann's nutrition may be compromised in remote areas due to the restricted availability to a variety of fresh food options. Hence, inadequate nourishment can worsen vulnerability undermine immune system performance and hinder the body's capacity for recovery from ailments like her recent struggle with myeloma.

Societal Attitudes

The way society views ageing and the existence of ageism can have a big impact on people's experiences that including Ann's. In addition, ageist beliefs that reinforce negative stereotypes related to physical ageing might lead to an underestimation of the capacities and requirements of the elderly. Age-related stereotypes could be applied to Ann's growing fragility, weight loss, and dental problems. With respect to Ann's particular difficulties, health literacy and social prescribing become essential elements in helping her to manage her health on her own. Hence, Ann's experience of leaving the door open and failing to switch off the cooker highlights the need for improved health literacy. It is crucial to give Ann the information and abilities she needs to comprehend her health issues take care of her prescriptions, and take preventative action. Interventions in health literacy can enable Ann to take an active role in her health ask questions during doctor visits and make well-informed decisions. Furthermore, health literacy and social prescribing give Ann the tools she needs to take an active role in her health management and create a network of supportive people in her community that contributes to her overall well-being. Ann could address the social components of her well-being preventing loneliness and giving her a sense of direction. social prescribing not only improves Ann's quality of life overall but also helps her manage her own health by fostering a supportive group.

Section 3: Psychological Issues

Grief and Loneliness

Ann's psychological health raises a number of important questions that need to be carefully considered. Furthermore, a complicated psychological landscape is created by her recent fight with myeloma, the death of her spouse fifteen years ago, and her current situation of living alone in a rural area. Hence, Ann's mental health may have been impacted by the experience of widowhood and the passing of time that could have resulted in emotions of loneliness and isolation. She may have developed coping techniques and emotional resilience as a result of losing her life partner and grieving is a lifetime process. In addition, the two-year struggle with myeloma highlights the psychological difficulty of dealing with a fatal illness (Hossain et al., 2023). During this period, Ann's psychological fortitude might have been put to the strain that could have had an impact on her mental and emotional health. It is important to take into account the psychological effects of such a rigorous medical journey that including any possible trauma and anxiety, in light of her general psychological well-being. However, the loss of her life partner may have an impact on her emotional fortitude coping skills and sense of purpose in general (Henson, Truchot and Canevello, 2020). Supporting Ann in her day-to-day activities and encouraging good ageing requires an understanding of and attention to these psychological elements.

Coping with Illness

The ongoing, two-year struggle with myeloma adds another level of psychological intricacy (Lucaciu et al., 2020). Ann may have faced challenges to her psychological resilience as she dealt with the uncertainty and worries that come with having a life-threatening illness. It is important to give serious thought to the psychological fallout from such a rigorous medical trip including any possible trauma (Rajaraman et al., 2021). In order to provide specialised interventions that promote Ann's mental and emotional well-being. Furthermore, it is essential to investigate her coping strategies, anxieties, and emotional reactions to the illness.

Cognitive Challenges

The goal of cognitive theories of ageing is to explain the reason younger and older individuals have different measurable levels of cognitive capacity (Fisher, Chacon and Chaffee, 2019). Numerous variables could account for these discrepancies such as actual age-related physical and sensory changes, cohort effects, features of cognitive tests and variations in the ways that younger and older individuals absorb information. Ann may be experiencing cognitive difficulties as seen by her recent attacks of lack of memory that involve forgetting to turn off the stove and becoming confused about the day. These problems could be related to ageing naturally or could be a sign of other psychological problems hurting her ability to think clearly. A person's sense of control and autonomy can be greatly impacted by cognitive decline, which can also have an effect on their emotional stability and mental health (Jahouh et al., 2021). In order to identify the specifics of these difficulties and carry out focused interventions to enhance Ann's cognitive well-being a comprehensive psychological evaluation that includes cognitive functions is essential.

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It could be possible to strengthen Ann's psychological resilience and support her overall positive ageing by investigating techniques like counselling cognitive-behavioural medications and social engagement-promoting events. it is essential to acknowledge and address these psychological aspects in order to have a holistic picture of Ann's well-being and create a thorough care plan that takes into account the complex interactions between her psychological issues. According to all lifespan models of development, a significant amount of growth is influenced by contextual elements like "social others" and their attitudes and beliefs (Walsh, 2023). Stereotypes concerning the second half of life's low capacity for learning and positive change can prevent older persons from pursuing additional opportunities for social, psychological, or physical growth. For instance, medical professionals have historically believed that there is little chance of improving health as one age. As a result, older persons frequently lack access to sufficient and excellent treatment such as psychotherapy. Both typical age-related cognitive changes and certain lifestyle factors may have an impact on Ann's forgetfulness. Furthermore, underscores the need of cognitive therapies and mental stimulation to promote her psychological well-being (Dutta et al., 2023).

Section 4: Social Issues

Social Isolation and Loneliness

Social isolation is one of the most important social difficulties Ann is battling, which is made worse by her remote living circumstances and the death of her spouse. Due to Ann's physical infirmity and restricted mobility, she may become isolated that may affect her social interactions. Her emotional and mental health may suffer if she does not have a reliable support network or engage in social activities on a regular basis.

In order to promote a feeling of belonging and lessen the possible detrimental impacts of isolation addressing this social issue entails developing opportunities for social interaction and community involvement. Furthermore, Biological factors play a significant role in both health and illness it comes to have spine care and pain treatment (Resarchgate, 2023). It is useful to recognise this component of the patient presentation as it helps choose the best course of action for care. Understanding the social and psychological components of patient care is important and should not be disregarded.

Theories of Sociological Ageing

According to the Sociological theories of ageing people age and inevitably retreat from social roles leading to a divide between the ageing person and society (Willis, Vickery and Jessiman, 2020). Hence, the “Disengagement Theory” emphasises the need to promote active social participation and integration as a means of counteracting disengagement that Ann's rural living and possible isolation may fit with. However, activity theory suggests that leading an active life, which includes social activities, promotes healthy ageing. Ann can benefit from activities that are in line with her interests and explore her social preferences in order to improve her sociological ageing experience.

Disengagement theory emphasises the need to promote active social participation and integration as a means of counteracting disengagement that Ann's rural living and possible isolation may fit with. However, activity theory suggests that leading an active life that includes social activities, promotes healthy ageing. Ann can benefit from activities that are in line with her interests and explore her social preferences in order to improve her sociological ageing experience.

Age-Inclusive Societies and Cultural Perspectives

Cultural viewpoints also have a significant impact on the way society views ageing (von Humboldt et al., 2020). Some cultures have a higher regard for elderly people due to their experience and wisdom that makes ageing more pleasant. Encouraging positive ageing requires creating age-inclusive cultures. Ann's story highlights the significance of opposing ageism and creating settings where senior citizens are respected participants. An age-inclusive society actively works to integrate older people into all aspects of communal life, acknowledging their varied range of talents (von Humboldt et al., 2020). Accepting a range of cultural viewpoints can improve Ann's social milieu and give her a stable foundation for ageing well within the confines of her particular cultural heritage. Hence, through the use of these concepts interventions could be customised to encourage social interaction dispel age-related preconceptions and establish a culturally accepting atmosphere that improves Ann's overall social well-being and ageing in a positive way.

Section 5: Person-Centred Care Planning

Person-centered care planning is a crucial strategy for addressing clients' biopsychosocial requirements, especially when it comes to promoting positive wellbeing and ageing with dignity. This strategy is in line with current health and social care policies, such as the NHS Long Term Plan (2019), the Care Act 2014, and the House of Care framework.

Application in Enhancing Positive Wellbeing and Valued Ageing

Person-centered care planning is essential for improving positive wellbeing and cherished ageing (Mast et al., 2021). It entails developing customised care plans based on the distinctive requirements, preferences, and life experiences of each client, guaranteeing a thorough comprehension of their social, emotional, and physical needs. By actively include clients in care planning and decision-making, this method respects their autonomy and fosters a sense of control over their treatment. It is essential to have a holistic approach that addresses not only physical health but also the mental, social, and spiritual facets of wellbeing. Involving the client's family and community in the care process is essential because it creates a network of support and improves the client's social environment (Litam and Hipolito?Delgado, 2020). Person-centered care plans are also dynamic, meaning they must be reviewed and adjusted frequently in order to successfully address the client's evolving needs and circumstances and promote their valued ageing.

Main Principles of the Approach

Person-centered care planning's guiding principles, which are in line with current health and social care policies, emphasise appreciating and respecting each person's individuality (Phelan et al., 2020). This method has a strong emphasis on person-centeredness, which guarantees that each patient receives care that is courteous and compassionately suited to their unique requirements, goals, and preferences. In order to provide complete treatment, collaboration and partnership are essential, engaging the patient, their family, and a diverse team of medical specialists. An other important concept is empowerment, which gives clients the ability to make knowledgeable decisions about their lives and care, fostering their freedom and self-determination. Person-centered care is also known for being holistic in that it attends to a person's physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs, among other facets of their health and wellness (J Mezzich , 2019). This all-encompassing strategy guarantees a more comprehensive and efficient care plan, enhancing the person's general welfare and quality of life.

Alignment with Contemporary Health and Social Care Policy

Person-centered care planning reflects a shift towards more individualised and holistic care approaches and is in significant alignment with current health and social care policy. The significance of this strategy is emphasised by important policies including the NHS Long Term Plan (2019), the Care Act 2014, and the House of Care framework (Marczak, Wistow and Fernández, 2019).

A key component of UK social care legislation, the Care Act 2014, highlights how important it is to take an individual's choices, feelings, and beliefs into account when planning for care and assistance (Zarzycki et al., 2022). This is in perfect harmony with the person-centered care philosophy, which places a high value on appreciating and comprehending each person's distinct needs and preferences. Person-centered care takes a holistic approach, which is reflected in the Act's focus on encouraging individual health, preventing needs, and taking into account the full person including their family and social surroundings. The House of Care framework promotes a coordinated, cooperative approach and is mostly employed in the management of chronic illnesses. It highlights how crucial it is for medical staff to collaborate with patients to jointly develop care plans. A key component of person-centred care is the collaborative approach, which guarantees that care plans are not only medically sound but also fit the goals and circumstances of the individual.

In terms of this, the NHS Long Term Plan (2019) provides individuals with greater choice over their health and care by placing a high priority on personalised care (Bridges, Pope and Braithwaite, 2019). More comprehensive and integrated models of care are introduced, promoting a move away from a one-size-fits-all strategy and towards an individual-tailored one. This includes the growth of personalised health budgets, which align with the person-centred care philosophy of empowerment by offering patients direct influence over their care management. Furthermore, the regulations above underscore the significance of mental health, community-based care, and technology in augmenting the provision of healthcare services (Yang et al., 2023). They encourage proactive rather than merely reactive methods, emphasising early intervention, prevention, and the use of digital tools to assist self-management all of which are in line with the person-centred care tenets.

Conclusion

In conclusion, person-centred care planning is an essential strategy in the context of modern health and social care, not just a helpful one. This strategy, which coincides with important policies including the Care Act 2014, the House of Care framework, and the NHS Long Term Plan (2019), emphasizes the significance of adapting care to meet the specific needs and preferences of individuals. Through an emphasis on person-centeredness, empowerment, cooperation, and a comprehensive approach to care, this strategy greatly improves clients' quality of life and overall well-being particularly when considering the ageing process.

With her particular combination of problems and circumstances, Ann's case demonstrates how this strategy might be used in real-world situations. Her psychological resilience can be increased and her overall experience of ageing can be improved by addressing her biopsychosocial needs through a person-centred care plan. This promotes taking into account her physical, emotional, and social requirements in an equitable manner and making sure that her care plan changes as her circumstances do.

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