Objectives

After taking this course the professional healthcare provider will be able to:

1.  Assess and treat the biopsychosocial issues confronting the aged.

2.  Cite the current trends of aging in the United States.

3.   Describe the issues facing caregivers.

4.   Identify options for long-term care.

I. Introduction

The years 1946 to 1964 in the United States saw a great increase in the birth rate known as the baby boom.   This group of baby boomers begins turning 65 in 2011 greatly increasing the number of "older people" living in the United States.  As the population of the aged increases, the demand for services, and for those who can provide those services, also increases. By the year 2030 it is estimated that the older population (65+) will nearly double from 2004  to 71.5 million  and the 85+ population is projected to increase to 9.6 million in the same time period. (AOA, 2005)

In July of 2004 the U.S. Census Bureau estimated the following age populations:

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, July 1, 2004 estimates (AOA, 2005)

The U.S. Census Bureau has made the following estimates of population growth in older Americans:

This growth is illustrated in the following chart: from the U.S. Census Bureau through 2050 (AOA, 2005):

 This course provides an introduction to the biopsychosocial issues facing the aged.   It includes the exploration of different long-term care options with the aged and their loved ones.    Many of these issues have a common theme of loss, including loss of relationships as a result of death, loss of physical abilities, mental capacity and functioning, independence, and the loss of productive or meaningful activities.  Roles that have defined them for most of their lives, such as a career, no longer exist.  Many work their whole adult lives looking forward to retirement, only to find that when they get there, it is not the panacea they thought it would be.   There are however, positive aspects of aging.  Many elderly enjoy retirement, redefining roles that they can more independently define, and have the flexibility to spend more time on activities that they enjoy.  This can include spending more time with family, traveling, physical exercise and joining clubs and service organizations.  It is important to have an awareness of both the challenges and concerns of those that are aging, but also their strengths, potential and opportunities for a life that still maintains a level of vitality.

Another concern when treating the elderly is that they are a very vulnerable demographic to physical violence, neglect, fraud and other types of abuses. This course will discuss these issues also, so that the provider will know the symptoms and risks associated with the abuse of the elderly.