Title: Identify the psychosocial problems associated with the older adult.
Course: Patient Care Technician (14051-III) > Section: Understanding Basic Anatomy and Physiology

Identification should include

- emotional problems
  - loss of social support
  - changing lifestyle
  - loss of relationships
  - limited finances
  - loss of independence
  - failing health
  - diminished coping mechanisms
- social responses
  - retirement
  - failing health
- spiritual and cultural responses.

Process/Skill Questions:

- How do the major adjustment periods of aging, such as retirement, the death of a spouse, major illness, depression, and nursing home/assisted living placement, manifest themselves?
- How can aging affect an individual’s social needs?
- What type of psychosocial problems might arise as a result of a lack of independence?
- What are signs of altered coping mechanisms in the older adult?
- What affect do psychosocial problems have on the health of the older adult?