Question

When discussing stage development theory, I feel it is important to note that with age may come adjustment even if the stages are accurate. We may have once had an ability that we can no longer perform due to the aging process but we can adjust while still providing insight to others.

For example, as my mother ages I see many things she can no longer do like she used to but she has adapted so that she can remain independent for as long as possible. For example, she lives in a split level home. She used to bound up and down the steps with several items in her hands. She can no longer “bound” to many places and she cannot go up and down the steps without holding on to the railing. She can still function, just at a slower pace and with some adjustments.

In instances where an individual is having difficulty accepting the aging process and does not want to make adjustments how might we address this in a loving way so as to help them be as productive as possible with daily tasks?

Answer 1

One of the most important things about ageing is that it would make one physically weak. One cannot perform the tasks that one was able to when one was young. This would mean that planning the tasks as per one’s physical ability would help on avoid any physical harm their tasks would cause. Lifting heavy objects, carrying too many items in hand while on the stairs etc. would force one to experience physical harms. Secondly, one’s cognitive ability to decide and remember things would be lost to a great extent. This would mean that one should work with one’s ability to remember things or make list of things one would do normally or one plans to do. Finally, one would also experience loneliness when one ages which would mean that one should build strong social connections that would help one have meaningful and happy times with like minded people. One should also engage in meaningful hobbies such as gardening, reading and volunteering etc. which would make their life engaging and enjoying.

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