Reevaluating Perceptions and Care of Older Adults- Societal Views Myths and Needed Changes
My current perception of older adults
I have seen so many older people who are ageing so well and are in a good physical state that I no longer hold only negative perceptions about old age. My current perception of older adults is that they are highly capable of attaining productivity at work and can be beneficial to society as a whole. I do not think that they are a burden to society as in the past. Do you need help with your assignment ? Get in touch with us at eminencepapers.com.
Changes needed regarding society’s view of older adults/aging
It is essential for society to eliminate the perception that older adults are burdensome. This should be reflected by a change in policies that support older adults to help them learn if they are willing to volunteer in various programs or stay at work. They have a lot to offer to society, and the fact that research shows that most older adults have better mental health resiliency and are happier (Coyle, 2017) means that young people can learn a lot from them on how to deal with life challenges. This will help lessen the general mental health problems like depression and anxiety (especially among young adults) that are on the rise today.
Changes needed on how older adults are cared for in the US
The way older adults are cared for in the US needs to change. To begin with, older adults need to be given more opportunities to work and be supported when they want to pursue higher learning. The American Psychological Association (2017) shows that older adults are capable of learning new skills. It is also crucial for individuals to be advised to stay mentally and physically active as these will improve their quality of life in old age. Therefore, more support needs to be offered to promote older adults’ physical and mental health.
Myths about older adults that surprised me
Some of the myths about older adults that surprised me include that older adults do not have any interest in intimacy or sex. Most older adults reside in nursing homes and are unable to learn new things. My interaction with some of my older relatives has shown me that these are all wrong perceptions about older adults.
References
American Psychological Association. (2017). Older Adults’ Health and Age-Related Changes Reality Versus Myth. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/pi/aging/resources/guides/myth-reality.pdf
Coyle, S. (2017). Ageing Advocate: Study Finds Elders More Resilient Than Youths. Social Work Today, 17(1),8.
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Question
After reviewing the readings/video, please consider the following:
What are your current perceptions of older adults?
What needs to change regarding society’s view of older adults/aging?
What needs to change about how older adults are cared for in the US?
What are some of the myths about older adults that surprised you?