Negative Stereotypes Of Geriatric Care In Nursing Homes

Whether a person chooses to admit it or not, old age is an inevitable factor of life. According to a survey conducted by the Alliance of Aging Research, the #1 fear of aging Americans is spending the final years of their lives in a nursing home. Abuse, bad food, and poor care are just a few negative stereotypes and perceptions of geriatric care in nursing homes. A majority of seniors are against the idea on depending on others for basic tasks and needs, and the decision to move to an assisted living community can be difficult for both the senior and his family because of the negative side effects that have been proven to come with the decision. Geriatric care in nursing homes causes negative emotions on residents as well as their families, that include anger, frustration, loneliness, and sadness; assisted living physically and psychologically effects some residents, but these negative affects can be eased and prevented through tactics such as social activities, communication, and therapy. One-third of America’s current population will be required to stay at a nursing home in their lifetime, and half of those residents will stay there for the remainder of their lives (“Family Resource Center” 1). When put

It is important to tend to as many of their physical, emotional, and mental needs as possible, to minimize difficult behavior; trying to understand the senior’s point of view will reduce hostility (Amarnick 40). Most nursing homes have a resident council, which is a group of residents who set standards and represent the interests of all residents in the living facility. When family members of a resident are friendly and cordial toward other residents it can significantly affect the resident in a positive aspect (Connell 68). A director of activities is often employed in nursing homes to schedule entertainment and keep the residents happy and occupied (Reed