Aging: Some Possible Psychological/Social Issues

Supporting people with an intellectual disability through the “Normal” Aging Process

Introduction

Aging Persons with an intellectual disability will:

Likely affect the daily rhythms of our homes and the community as a whole.
Push us to focus even more on building upon, reinforcing and developing their strengths so that their quality of life is enhanced.
Have frequent changes in support and residential location and their health records are often inadequate. Consequently, it may take some time to piece together an accurate picture of the individual’s health status.
Challenge us to find creative ways for people to continue to do the things they like to do and to continue to have a role in the home.

Other Considerations:

Aging takes place earlier with individuals who are intellectually disabled than the general population.
In the 21st century, the life expectancy has increased to 66.1 years of age.
Individuals who are intellectually disabled account for 3% of older adults.
Health needs change as they individual gets older.

Psychological/Social Issues

Psychological/Social Issues possible as the person ages:

Decreased social contact – friends and family die- person may withdraw.
Reconciliation with past-resolving conflicts, losses, acceptance.
Changes in physical appearance may be difficult.
Changes in roles/tasks that people can manage can make them feel they have less to contribute.
Managing leisure time- more “free time”.
Depression relatively common.

Strategies for supporting people with Psychological/Social Issues as the person ages:

Provide grief support and encourage existing friendships.
Do life review work/life story book and use photographs to help person talk about the past.
Help person with grooming and clothes so they can look their best.
Help person participate in meaningful ways in daily activities, find new roles and have as much control and choice as possible. Help structure time.
Facilitate participation in leisure activities the person likes.
Facilitate assessment for and treatment of depression.
Advocate for your clients since it is predicated that social services will not be equipped to deal with the increased aging population.
Hire qualified staff to perform assessments on anticipated new geriatric population.

Summary

Not every person will experience all of these changes.
Organizations concerned with a particular syndrome or condition may be helpful in providing information helpful for certain individuals.
Aging is a spiritual and psychological journey as well as a physical one.

Don’t Forget

If we believe that people can continue to grow and to share their gifts as they age we will support them to do so.

Information is compiled from the following:

McCracken Intervention Matrix –McCracken -College of Nursing and Health, University of Cincinnati and Lotteman Children, Inc. Covington, KY
A Focus on Geriatrics Sharing the Learning St Vincent Hospitals part of Providence Health Care
Age Changes and what to do about it Phyllis Kultgen and Peggy Hotz
Management Guidelines Development Disability Version 2, 2005.

Original material compiled by Jane Powell of L’Arche Ontario
Adapted with permission from http://www.aging-and-disability.org

Aging: Changes in Cognitive Ability

Supporting people with an intellectual disability through the “Normal” Aging Process

Introduction

Aging Persons with an intellectual disability will:

Likely affect the daily rhythms of our homes and the community as a whole.
Push us to focus even more on building upon, reinforcing and developing their strengths so that their quality of life is enhanced.
Have frequent changes in support and residential location and their health records are often inadequate. Consequently, it may take some time to piece together an accurate picture of the individual’s health status.
Challenge us to find creative ways for people to continue to do the things they like to do and to continue to have a role in the home.

Other Considerations:

Aging takes place earlier with individuals who are intellectually disabled than the general population.
In the 21st century, the life expectancy has increased to 66.1 years of age.
Individuals who are intellectually disabled account for 3% of older adults.
Health needs change as they individual gets older.

Cognitive Ability

Changes in the cognitive ability expected as the person ages:

Don’t lose overall ability to learn new things but there are changes in the learning process.
Harder to memorize lists of names and words than for a younger person.
Sensory and motor changes as well as cognitive ability may affect ability to respond – hard to know which is which.
Increased risk for dementia – approximately 56% to 67% of the population will be affected after the age of 60.

Strategies for supporting people with changes in cognitive ability:

Learning new information may take longer for an older person and they may need cues to help to retrieve information stored in memory.
When given a choice of answers it may be easier for the person to give correct answer rather that retrieving directly from memory.
Monitor for signs and symptoms of dementia which include but are not limited to:
- Behavioral changes.
- Difficulty performing familiar tasks.
- Mood swings.
- Decline in level of functioning.

Summary

Not every person will experience all of these changes.
Organizations concerned with a particular syndrome or condition may be helpful in providing information helpful for certain individuals.
Aging is a spiritual and psychological journey as well as a physical one.

Don’t Forget

If we believe that people can continue to grow and to share their gifts as they age we will support them to do so.

Information is compiled from the following:

McCracken Intervention Matrix –McCracken -College of Nursing and Health, University of Cincinnati and Lotteman Children, Inc. Covington, KY
A Focus on Geriatrics Sharing the Learning St Vincent Hospitals part of Providence Health Care
Age Changes and what to do about it Phyllis Kultgen and Peggy Hotz
Management Guidelines Development Disability Version 2, 2005.

Original material compiled by Jane Powell of L’Arche Ontario
Adapted with permission from http://www.aging-and-disability.org

Aging: Changes in the Nervous System

Supporting people with an intellectual disability through the “Normal” Aging Process

Introduction

Aging Persons with an intellectual disability will:

Likely affect the daily rhythms of our homes and the community as a whole.
Push us to focus even more on building upon, reinforcing and developing their strengths so that their quality of life is enhanced.
Have frequent changes in support and residential location and their health records are often inadequate. Consequently, it may take some time to piece together an accurate picture of the individual’s health status.
Challenge us to find creative ways for people to continue to do the things they like to do and to continue to have a role in the home.

Other Considerations:

Aging takes place earlier with individuals who are intellectually disabled than the general population.
In the 21st century, the life expectancy has increased to 66.1 years of age.
Individuals who are intellectually disabled account for 3% of older adults.
Health needs change as they individual gets older.

Nervous System

Changes in the nervous system expected as the person ages:

Sleep /wake cycle changes at 60/70. May need 1or 2 less hours of sleep at night but sleep may not be as restful.
People get about 20% less oxygen to the brain which affects balance.

Strategies for supporting people with changes in the nervous system:

Discourage long naps and caffeinated products later in the day. Encourage the same patterns and rituals at bedtime.
Maintain a set schedule with respect to bedtime time and arising in the morning.

Summary

Not every person will experience all of these changes.
Organizations concerned with a particular syndrome or condition may be helpful in providing information helpful for certain individuals.
Aging is a spiritual and psychological journey as well as a physical one.

Don’t Forget

If we believe that people can continue to grow and to share their gifts as they age we will support them to do so.

Information is compiled from the following:

McCracken Intervention Matrix –McCracken -College of Nursing and Health, University of Cincinnati and Lotteman Children, Inc. Covington, KY
A Focus on Geriatrics Sharing the Learning St Vincent Hospitals part of Providence Health Care
Age Changes and what to do about it Phyllis Kultgen and Peggy Hotz
Management Guidelines Development Disability Version 2, 2005.

Original material compiled by Jane Powell of L’Arche Ontario
Adapted with permission from http://www.aging-and-disability.org

Aging: Changes in Bones and Joints

Supporting people with an intellectual disability through the “Normal” Aging Process

Introduction

Aging Persons with an intellectual disability will:

Likely affect the daily rhythms of our homes and the community as a whole.
Push us to focus even more on building upon, reinforcing and developing their strengths so that their quality of life is enhanced.
Have frequent changes in support and residential location and their health records are often inadequate. Consequently, it may take some time to piece together an accurate picture of the individual’s health status.
Challenge us to find creative ways for people to continue to do the things they like to do and to continue to have a role in the home.

Other Considerations:

Aging takes place earlier with individuals who are intellectually disabled than the general population.
In the 21st century, the life expectancy has increased to 66.1 years of age.
Individuals who are intellectually disabled account for 3% of older adults.
Health needs change as they individual gets older.

Bones and Joints

Changes in Bones and Joints expected as the person ages:

Decreased height due to bone changes.
Bones are more brittle – risk of fracture.
Changes of absorption of calcium.
Pain from previous falls or broken bones.

Joints less lubricated – may develop arthritis or osteoarthritis.
Unsteady gait.
Decrease in muscle mass, strength, tone and joint mobility.

Strategies for supporting people with changes in Bones and Joints:

Incorporate light exercise including some weight bearing if possible to daily routines.
Take precautions to prevent falls such as de-clutter home and remove area rugs.
May need calcium and Vitamin D supplements- ensure a balanced diet.
Monitor and treat pain appropriately.
Provide pain medication if at possible prior to undertaking an activity to reduce discomfort.
Allow more time as the person may need to do things more slowly.
Promote use of mobility aids.
Use of safeguards to prevent falls.
Increase tolerance for physical activity.
Restore and improve the ability to ambulate and /or participate in ADLs.
Avoid injury from falling or improper use of body mechanics.

Summary

Not every person will experience all of these changes.
Organizations concerned with a particular syndrome or condition may be helpful in providing information helpful for certain individuals.
Aging is a spiritual and psychological journey as well as a physical one.

Don’t Forget

If we believe that people can continue to grow and to share their gifts as they age we will support them to do so.

Information is compiled from the following:

McCracken Intervention Matrix –McCracken -College of Nursing and Health, University of Cincinnati and Lotteman Children, Inc. Covington, KY
A Focus on Geriatrics Sharing the Learning St Vincent Hospitals part of Providence Health Care
Age Changes and what to do about it Phyllis Kultgen and Peggy Hotz
Management Guidelines Development Disability Version 2, 2005.

Original material compiled by Jane Powell of L’Arche Ontario
Adapted with permission from http://www.aging-and-disability.org

Aging: Changes in the Cardiovascular System

Supporting people with an intellectual disability through the “Normal” Aging Process

Introduction

Aging Persons with an intellectual disability will:

Likely affect the daily rhythms of our homes and the community as a whole.
Push us to focus even more on building upon, reinforcing and developing their strengths so that their quality of life is enhanced.
Have frequent changes in support and residential location and their health records are often inadequate. Consequently, it may take some time to piece together an accurate picture of the individual’s health status.
Challenge us to find creative ways for people to continue to do the things they like to do and to continue to have a role in the home.

Other Considerations:

Aging takes place earlier with individuals who are intellectually disabled than the general population.
In the 21st century, the life expectancy has increased to 66.1 years of age.
Individuals who are intellectually disabled account for 3% of older adults.
Health needs change as they individual gets older.

Cardiovascular System

Changes in the cardiovascular system expected as the person ages:

Heart works harder to maintain oxygen levels in the body.
Cholesterol may accumulate on the walls of the arteries.
Decreased ability to replace fluids lost while breathing.
Diminished cardiac reserve.

Strategies for supporting people with changes in the cardiovascular system:

People may become fatigued – may need more rest.
Blood pressure monitored as recommended by healthcare professionals.
Reposition person frequently, if unable to move on their own, so fluids don’t build up. Physiotherapy may be needed.
Assure adequate fluid intake and seek medical help quickly if you think the person may be dehydrated.
Encourage client to raise feet or to rest on pillows to decrease edema.
Sign of stroke and heart attack may not be as noticeable as the general population. Some of the signs may be rapid change of behaviour, such as sudden weakness or unable to stand.
Exercise regularly, participating in at least 20 minutes ( up to 40 minutes) of vigorous exercise 4-5 times a week.
Do not smoke.
Maintain ideal weight.
Eat a diet low in total fat, saturated fats, cholesterol and high in fibber.

Summary

Not every person will experience all of these changes.
Organizations concerned with a particular syndrome or condition may be helpful in providing information helpful for certain individuals.
Aging is a spiritual and psychological journey as well as a physical one.

Don’t Forget

If we believe that people can continue to grow and to share their gifts as they age we will support them to do so.

Information is compiled from the following:

McCracken Intervention Matrix –McCracken -College of Nursing and Health, University of Cincinnati and Lotteman Children, Inc. Covington, KY
A Focus on Geriatrics Sharing the Learning St Vincent Hospitals part of Providence Health Care
Age Changes and what to do about it Phyllis Kultgen and Peggy Hotz
Management Guidelines Development Disability Version 2, 2005.

Original material compiled by Jane Powell of L’Arche Ontario
Adapted with permission from http://www.aging-and-disability.org

Changes in the Respiratory System

Supporting people with an intellectual disability through the “Normal” Aging Process

Introduction

Aging Persons with an intellectual disability will:

Likely affect the daily rhythms of our homes and the community as a whole.
Push us to focus even more on building upon, reinforcing and developing their strengths so that their quality of life is enhanced.
Have frequent changes in support and residential location and their health records are often inadequate. Consequently, it may take some time to piece together an accurate picture of the individual’s health status.
Challenge us to find creative ways for people to continue to do the things they like to do and to continue to have a role in the home.

Other Considerations:

Aging takes place earlier with individuals who are intellectually disabled than the general population.
In the 21st century, the life expectancy has increased to 66.1 years of age.
Individuals who are intellectually disabled account for 3% of older adults.
Health needs change as they individual gets older.

Respiratory System

Changes in the respiratory system expected as the person ages:

Respiratory disease most common cause of death.
Decreased volume and expansion of lungs may lead to decreased function.
Susceptible to lung infections, increases if someone is inactive.
Swallowing impairments can cause aspiration.
Pooling of respiratory secretions.
Atelectasis.

Strategies for supporting people with changes in the respiratory system:

Planning activities with shorter duration.
May need more rest periods.
Reposition person frequently if they are unable to move on they own.
Consult a doctor if person consistently coughs during or after a meal.
Encourage deep breath exercises.
Breathe through nose to moisturize the inhaled air.
Monitor clients at meal time and encourage them to eat slowly to reduce the risk of aspiration.
Keep immunization up to date and consult with health care provider about with other immunization that may be recommended.
Encourage hand hygiene throughout the day to reduce the transmission of infectious diseases especially during flu season.
Monitor for signs and symptoms of infection.
Encourage client to increase fluid intake.

Summary

Not every person will experience all of these changes.
Organizations concerned with a particular syndrome or condition may be helpful in providing information helpful for certain individuals.
Aging is a spiritual and psychological journey as well as a physical one.

Don’t Forget

If we believe that people can continue to grow and to share their gifts as they age we will support them to do so.

Information is compiled from the following:

McCracken Intervention Matrix –McCracken -College of Nursing and Health, University of Cincinnati and Lotteman Children, Inc. Covington, KY
A Focus on Geriatrics Sharing the Learning St Vincent Hospitals part of Providence Health Care
Age Changes and what to do about it Phyllis Kultgen and Peggy Hotz
Management Guidelines Development Disability Version 2, 2005.

Original material compiled by Jane Powell of L’Arche Ontario
Adapted with permission from http://www.aging-and-disability.org

Aging: Changes in Elimination

Supporting people with an intellectual disability through the “Normal” Aging Process

Introduction

Aging Persons with an intellectual disability will:

Likely affect the daily rhythms of our homes and the community as a whole.
Push us to focus even more on building upon, reinforcing and developing their strengths so that their quality of life is enhanced.
Have frequent changes in support and residential location and their health records are often inadequate. Consequently, it may take some time to piece together an accurate picture of the individual’s health status.
Challenge us to find creative ways for people to continue to do the things they like to do and to continue to have a role in the home.

Other Considerations:

Aging takes place earlier with individuals who are intellectually disabled than the general population.
In the 21st century, the life expectancy has increased to 66.1 years of age.
Individuals who are intellectually disabled account for 3% of older adults.
Health needs change as they individual gets older.

Elimination

Changes in elimination expected as the person ages:

Bladder atrophy- inability to hold bladder for long periods.
Constipation can become a concern because of slower metabolism.
Men can develop prostate problems causing frequent need to urinate.
Incontinence may occur because of lack of sphincter control.

Strategies for supporting people with changes in elimination:

Maintain bowel routines and place client on bowel elimination protocols if necessary.
Plan ahead-know where washrooms are when you go out.
Decrease caffeine intake.
Increase fiber and fluid intake.
Exercise.
Provide appropriate supplies and emotional support.

Summary

Not every person will experience all of these changes.
Organizations concerned with a particular syndrome or condition may be helpful in providing information helpful for certain individuals.
Aging is a spiritual and psychological journey as well as a physical one.

Don’t Forget

If we believe that people can continue to grow and to share their gifts as they age we will support them to do so.

Information is compiled from the following:

McCracken Intervention Matrix –McCracken -College of Nursing and Health, University of Cincinnati and Lotteman Children, Inc. Covington, KY
A Focus on Geriatrics Sharing the Learning St Vincent Hospitals part of Providence Health Care
Age Changes and what to do about it Phyllis Kultgen and Peggy Hotz
Management Guidelines Development Disability Version 2, 2005.

Original material compiled by Jane Powell of L’Arche Ontario
Adapted with permission from http://www.aging-and-disability.org

Aging: Changes in Metabolic System

Supporting people with an intellectual disability through the “Normal” Aging Process

Introduction

Aging Persons with an intellectual disability will:

Likely affect the daily rhythms of our homes and the community as a whole.
Push us to focus even more on building upon, reinforcing and developing their strengths so that their quality of life is enhanced.
Have frequent changes in support and residential location and their health records are often inadequate. Consequently, it may take some time to piece together an accurate picture of the individual’s health status.
Challenge us to find creative ways for people to continue to do the things they like to do and to continue to have a role in the home.

Other Considerations:

Aging takes place earlier with individuals who are intellectually disabled than the general population.
In the 21st century, the life expectancy has increased to 66.1 years of age.
Individuals who are intellectually disabled account for 3% of older adults.
Health needs change as they individual gets older.

Metabolic System

Changes in metabolic system expected as the person ages:

Decrease in ability to adapt to stress.
Decrease in metabolic rate.
Decrease in thyroid-gland related to calcium absorption and energy level.
Decrease in certain essential vitamins and minerals.

Strategies for supporting people with changes in metabolic system:

May feel cold so provide what is necessary for the person to feel comfortable but avoid overheating.
Maintain a routine to reduce stress levels.
May need calcium and vitamin D supplements to prevent osteoporosis.

Summary

Not every person will experience all of these changes.
Organizations concerned with a particular syndrome or condition may be helpful in providing information helpful for certain individuals.
Aging is a spiritual and psychological journey as well as a physical one.

Don’t Forget

If we believe that people can continue to grow and to share their gifts as they age we will support them to do so.

Information is compiled from the following:

McCracken Intervention Matrix –McCracken -College of Nursing and Health, University of Cincinnati and Lotteman Children, Inc. Covington, KY
A Focus on Geriatrics Sharing the Learning St Vincent Hospitals part of Providence Health Care
Age Changes and what to do about it Phyllis Kultgen and Peggy Hotz
Management Guidelines Development Disability Version 2, 2005.

Original material compiled by Jane Powell of L’Arche Ontario
Adapted with permission from http://www.aging-and-disability.org

Aging: Changes in Skin

Supporting people with an intellectual disability through the “Normal” Aging Process

Introduction

Aging Persons with an intellectual disability will:

Likely affect the daily rhythms of our homes and the community as a whole.
Push us to focus even more on building upon, reinforcing and developing their strengths so that their quality of life is enhanced.
Have frequent changes in support and residential location and their health records are often inadequate. Consequently, it may take some time to piece together an accurate picture of the individual’s health status.
Challenge us to find creative ways for people to continue to do the things they like to do and to continue to have a role in the home.

Other Considerations:

Aging takes place earlier with individuals who are intellectually disabled than the general population.
In the 21st century, the life expectancy has increased to 66.1 years of age.
Individuals who are intellectually disabled account for 3% of older adults.
Health needs change as they individual gets older.

Skin

Changes in skin expected as the person ages:

Decrease in moisture and elasticity.
More fragile- tears easily.
Decrease in subcutaneous fat.
Decrease in sweat glands -less ability to adjust body temperature.
Tactile sensation decreases- not as many nerves.
May bruise more easily.

Strategies for supporting people with changes in skin:

Use moisturizers – bath oils can make bath tub slippery.
As a care provider keep nails short.
Pat gently when helping to dry after bathing.
Bottom of feet may be sore, pay attention to footwear.
May feel cooler than others but be more at risk of sun stroke.
Use sun screen, hats and long sleeves.
Be careful with such things as hot water bottles, showers or bathtubs.
Increase fluid intake.
Frequently reposition client every two hours to prevent pressure ulcers.
Monitor for signs and symptoms of skin breakdown especially on bony prominences of the body such as heels of feet, elbows and coccyx.

Summary

Not every person will experience all of these changes.
Organizations concerned with a particular syndrome or condition may be helpful in providing information helpful for certain individuals.
Aging is a spiritual and psychological journey as well as a physical one.

Don’t Forget

If we believe that people can continue to grow and to share their gifts as they age we will support them to do so.

Information is compiled from the following:

McCracken Intervention Matrix –McCracken -College of Nursing and Health, University of Cincinnati and Lotteman Children, Inc. Covington, KY
A Focus on Geriatrics Sharing the Learning St Vincent Hospitals part of Providence Health Care
Age Changes and what to do about it Phyllis Kultgen and Peggy Hotz
Management Guidelines Development Disability Version 2, 2005.

Original material compiled by Jane Powell of L’Arche Ontario
Adapted with permission from http://www.aging-and-disability.org

Aging: Changes in Vision

Supporting people with an intellectual disability through the “Normal” Aging Process

Introduction

Aging Persons with an intellectual disability will:

Likely affect the daily rhythms of our homes and the community as a whole.
Push us to focus even more on building upon, reinforcing and developing their strengths so that their quality of life is enhanced.
Have frequent changes in support and residential location and their health records are often inadequate. Consequently, it may take some time to piece together an accurate picture of the individual’s health status.
Challenge us to find creative ways for people to continue to do the things they like to do and to continue to have a role in the home.

Other Considerations:

Aging takes place earlier with individuals who are intellectually disabled than the general population.
In the 21st century, the life expectancy has increased to 66.1 years of age.
Individuals who are intellectually disabled account for 3% of older adults.
Health needs change as they individual gets older.

Vision

Changes in Vision expected as the person ages:

Decreased peripheral vision.
Decreased night vision.
Decreased capacity to distinguish color.
Reduced lubrication resulting in dry, itchy eyes.
Increased risk for developing cataracts, glaucoma, and other eye diseases.

Strategies for supporting people with changes in vision:

Approach people directly not from the side.
Proper lighting can make a big difference.
Assist with choosing clothes if needed.
Use of natural tear products.
Unclutter home and remove area rugs.
Attend eye examinations yearly to ensure that there are no cataracts, glaucoma or other health issues.
Announce your presence when entering the patient’s room. Identify yourself by name.
Stay within the client’s field of vision, if patient has a partial vision loss.
Speak in a warm and pleasant tone of voice. Avoid speaking louder than necessary when talking with a blind person.
Always explain what you are about to do before touching the person.
Explain sound in the environment.
Indicate when a conversation has ended and when you are leaving the room.
Always keep hallway/corridor brightly lit.
Use a contrasting colour tape on the edges of stairs to identify the edge of the stairs.
Seek help from the CNIB if necessary.

Summary

Not every person will experience all of these changes.
Organizations concerned with a particular syndrome or condition may be helpful in providing information helpful for certain individuals.
Aging is a spiritual and psychological journey as well as a physical one.

Don’t Forget

If we believe that people can continue to grow and to share their gifts as they age we will support them to do so.

Information is compiled from the following:

McCracken Intervention Matrix –McCracken -College of Nursing and Health, University of Cincinnati and Lotteman Children, Inc. Covington, KY
A Focus on Geriatrics Sharing the Learning St Vincent Hospitals part of Providence Health Care
Age Changes and what to do about it Phyllis Kultgen and Peggy Hotz
Management Guidelines Development Disability Version 2, 2005.

Original material compiled by Jane Powell of L’Arche Ontario
Adapted with permission from http://www.aging-and-disability.org

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