Ageing occurs universally and is the process of growing older: it is simply a natural part of life and the experience of living (Moyle, Parker & Bramble, 2014). The thought of ageing can be very confronting for some people as it can often be accompanied by negative assumptions and stereotypes. With a quickly increasing elderly population nurses and health care professionals need to be aware of geriatric requirements and practices in order to provide appropriate and effective care to elderly patients (Elo, Saarnio, Routasalo & Isola, 2011). In the chosen case study “Philosophy of Ageing” significant aspects of ageing will be discussed and further analysed. Development of personal and professional philosophies towards ageing, cultural and ethical …show more content…
Celik, Kapucu, Tuna & Akkus, 2010 further support these assumptions by stating research shows negative attitudes towards the elderly are based on myths and stereotypes about older people being passive, boring, frustrating, fragile, depressed, lonely and useless. These misconstrued opinions result in increased levels of ageism and age discrimination within society (Elo, Saarnio, Routasalo & Isola, 2011). Moyle, Parker & Bramble, 2014 state that personal experiences essentially construct individuals’ values and beliefs about life. It is essential for nurses to understand and acknowledge that ageing is an inevitable and irreversible biological process, which is not the same for any two people (Davies, 2011). Development of a personal and professional philosophy of ageing requires one to objectively reflect on their own values, beliefs, attitudes and bias towards ageing in order to provide competent levels of care and professionalism in practice (Celik, Kapucu, Tuna & Akkus, …show more content…
Jim’s wife and sons state that they “just want him to be his old self”, however in reality this is simply no longer possible. With Jims changing physical capacity it is important that his wife and sons acknowledge his reduced functional capabilities and work towards achieving realistic goals. Client and family education, promotion of a healthy and active lifestyle (adapted to Jim’s abilities), patient input and involvement in decision making and encouraging positivity through personalised nursing practices and family support is vital in promoting quality of life and best outcomes for