Theory-driven guidelines for practical care of older people, based on the theory of gerotranscendence

The theory of gerotranscendence states that human development is a process extending into old age. When optimized, this process ends in a new perspective. The developmental process towards gerotranscendence can be obstructed or accelerated by life crises and grief, but elements in the culture can also facilitate or impede the process. Similarly, the caring climate can obstruct or accelerate the process toward gerotranscendence. The view introduced by the theory may have several consequences for staff treatment of and actions towards older people, as it offers a new understanding of living into old age.

The aim of the present study was to derive guidelines for practical use in the care of older people. The guidelines should be used to promote a development toward gerotranscendence and should also be of value for people who already have attained a state of gerotranscendence.

The method of deriving guidelines from the theory was focus group interviews. The theory of gerotranscendence was used as a foundation for stimulating the discussions in the focus groups as well as for organizing the proposals that emerged.

Concrete guidelines at three levels, focusing on the individual, activity and organization, were derived. The guidelines describe different ways to support older people in their process towards gerotranscendence.

These guidelines could support staff in their practical care of older people and could be used as a supplement to enrich the present care.