Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 15, 2026
03:59
Therapeutic Massage for Psychological Well-being in Geriatric Oncology
Published on: May 22, 2026
The "War" Between Aging and Dying
1Theresa Brown, nurse and New York Times bestselling writer, is the author of Healing: When a Nurse Becomes a Patient (Algonquin Books, 2022) and The Shift: One Nurse, Twelve Hours, Four Patients' Lives (Algonquin Books, 2015). She is also a contributor to the New York Times and CNN.com. Contact author: TheresaBrown@hey.com. The author has disclosed no potential conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise.
The American Journal of Nursing
|August 14, 2026
Summary
This study re-evaluates societal views on aging and explores innovative approaches to elder care. It aims to improve the quality of life for older adults through better support systems.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Sociology
- Healthcare Studies
Background:
- Traditional views of old age often overlook the diversity and potential of older adults.
- Current elder care models may not adequately address the evolving needs of an aging population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically examine prevailing societal perceptions of old age.
- To propose and evaluate novel strategies for enhancing the care and well-being of the elderly.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of gerontological and sociological studies.
- Analysis of current elder care practices and policies.
- Qualitative research involving interviews with older adults and caregivers.
Main Results:
- Identified ageism and negative stereotypes associated with aging.
- Highlighted gaps in current elder care services and support systems.
- Revealed a strong desire among older adults for autonomy and meaningful engagement.
Conclusions:
- Challenging ageist attitudes is crucial for improving the experience of aging.
- Implementing person-centered, community-based elder care models can enhance quality of life.
- Further research is needed to develop and scale innovative care solutions for the elderly.
Related Concept Videos
01:21Kubler Ross's Stages of Dying
Elisabeth Kübler-Ross significantly advanced psychology's understanding of the process of dying with her influential book, On Death and Dying (1969). She focused on studying terminally ill individuals and outlined five stages commonly experienced when coping with death: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance.
In denial, individuals reject the reality of their condition, often thinking, "This isn't true; I feel fine," as a way to protect themselves from emotional distress. Anger...
In denial, individuals reject the reality of their condition, often thinking, "This isn't true; I feel fine," as a way to protect themselves from emotional distress. Anger...
01:26Aging
Aging is a complex biological phenomenon influenced by various processes that affect cellular and systemic functions. Several prominent theories attempt to explain its mechanisms, highlighting cellular limitations, oxidative damage, and hormonal changes as central factors in aging.
Cellular Clock Theory
The cellular clock theory posits that the human lifespan is closely tied to the finite capacity of cells to divide, a phenomenon governed by telomeres, which are protective caps at the ends of...
Cellular Clock Theory
The cellular clock theory posits that the human lifespan is closely tied to the finite capacity of cells to divide, a phenomenon governed by telomeres, which are protective caps at the ends of...
01:19The Effect of Aging on Tissues
Several body functions deteriorate with age. The external signs of aging are easily identifiable. For example, the skin becomes dry, less elastic, and thins out, forming wrinkles. The skin of the face begins to appear looser due to a decrease in the levels of elastic and collagen fibers in the connective tissue. Additionally, melanin production in the hair follicle decreases with age, resulting in gray hair. Moreover, the senses of sight and hearing decline, so glasses and hearing aids may...
01:27Erikson's Theory on Socioemotional Development during Adulthood
Erik Erikson's theory of psychosocial development outlines a series of stages through which individuals progress across the lifespan. Each stage involves a psychosocial conflict that significantly influences personal growth and well-being. Three key stages — intimacy versus isolation, generativity versus stagnation, and integrity versus despair — highlight the developmental challenges faced in adulthood.
Intimacy Versus Isolation in Early Adulthood
Individuals in early adulthood, from the 20s...
Intimacy Versus Isolation in Early Adulthood
Individuals in early adulthood, from the 20s...
01:37Mitochondria
Mitochondria are eukaryotic cellular organelles that are known to produce energy through a process called oxidative phosphorylation. Besides their primary function, mitochondria are involved in various cellular processes, including cell growth, differentiation, signaling, metabolism, and senescence. Age-related changes cause a decline in mitochondrial quality and integrity due to increased mitochondrial mutations and oxidative damage. Thus, aging can severely impact mitochondrial functions,...
01:30Ethical Dilemmas II
Resolving an ethical dilemma in healthcare involves a systematic approach that considers every aspect of the issue, respecting both the patient's needs and values and the healthcare professional's ethical obligations. Here are potential steps to resolve an ethical dilemma: