Gerontology is the scientific study of the cause and effect of ageing. The rate of ageing can vary tremendously from one individual of another within the same environment. As a result of the process to ageing, changes in human tissues and cells occur which bring about alternations in the appearance and abilities of the individual.
THEORIES OF AGEING
Wear and Tear Therapy
Free radical theory: This theory proposes that cumulative damage to vital, irreplaceable body parts, continues as age advances. This may lead to death of cells, tissues, organs and finally the person himself.
The theory of wear and tear especially, the role of free radicals, has proved to be the hot favourite of pharmaceutical organisations for promotion of antioxidants, which not only in prevention of killer diseases in elderly but also for prolongation of longevity. The results are rewarding.
Error Castrophe Theory
As per this theory, various metabolic processes that are essential for healthy living have been presumed not to be 100 per cent accurate. So they become erratic, sometimes resulting in production of abnormal metabolites that go on accumulating whenever erratic process recurs as age advances. The accumulated abnormal metabolite when it 2crosses threshold level, gives rise to cellular dysfunction leading to ageing.
Toxic Theory
Poisons of exogenous or endogenous origin accumulate in the body and produce malfunctioning and later leading to death.
Genetic Theory
There is a definite link between genes and ageing. Multiple genes may be involved. Even causing age related diseases may influence life span and quality of life.
Somatic Mutation Theory
This theory states a random mutation in cells which renders them inefficient. The number of inefficient cells increases with age and this impairs the function of organs. This is supported by the fact that there is higher incidence of chromosomal abnormalities with age.
Gender and Ageing
Studies reveal that there is differential life expectancy between human males and females in developed countries which has resulted in greater attention being focussed on its effect on pathogenesis.
Although no definite reason has been identified till date, still researchers are focussing on role of oestrogen in ageing.
INTRODUCTION
Life expectancy having risen all over the world is of concern to every nation to be able to look after its elderly population and to educate them for a healthy and active ageing. As we have entered 21st century we find that the typical age profiles of nearly all national populations has either already undergone or undergoing an enormous change. Now at least one in 15 or 16 citizens are over the age of 60. The world health assembly in its resolution in 1979 called for preventive action to pay attention to the quality of life of the elderly and to find effective alternatives to the rising trend in institutional care.
The goal for health for all is one of ensuring economic and social equity. Morbidity patterns of the elderly, their epidermological features 3in different cultural settings and meeting, the health care needs of the elderly with reliance on family base and human based care is stressed. These are integral parts of the health for all concepts.
Reasons for ageing population: The main reason is premature mortality from infection and chronic deseases. These are drastically, reduced due to the advances in medicine and medical treatment.
Secondly improvement in sanitation, housing, nutrition, medical innovations including vaccination and the use of antibiotics which prevent diseases and increases longevity of life, thus making people live up 70 and 80. Why should we pay attention towards ageing population?
It is because the increase in number of old people and their problems attracting attention of international organisations. So, it is understood that old age can no longer be ignored.
Older people needs medical care because they are admitted to hospital more frequently and for longer period of time than any other age group. The rate of hospitalisation and average length of stay increase with age. They suffer from multiple pathology and chronic illnesses. Acute illness and hospitalisation may be more difficult for older people. Age-related changes in organ function particularly in the renal, pulmonary and immune systems, may effect an older persons physiological response to acute illness.
Also homeostatic mechanism can decrease tolerance of medication, surgery and invasive procedure.
Older people have an increased risk of complication such as adverse drug reaction, confusion, incontinence, falls and infections.
Older people are more prone to the development of hospital acquired infection such as chest and urinary complications.
Nutritional deficiencies and dehydration may lead to fluid and electrolyte imbalances.
Visual and hearing problems may further deteriorates their normal daily living activities.
These problems get aggravated because little attention is given to enormous need of elderly. Health services to elderly are totally inadequate. Health personal in community centers are practically ignorant to deal with the health needs of elderly. So, we need to counter all these problems and try to understand the meaning of successful ageing and the need for speciality nursing care for older people.