Gerontological Issue: Promoting Quality of Life in Older Adults with Dementia
Select an article on a Gerontological issue from a Professional Nursing Journal and write a paper incorporating the criteria listed below. The paper must be typed and no longer than 5 pages double spaced.
Format Criteria:
• Article must be less than 5 years old and from a professional Nursing peer-reviewed journal.
• Summarize the clinical issue presented in the article in 200 words or less.
• Apply the main concept of the article to a clinical situation or experience.
• Report at least three nursing considerations concerning patients and families experiencing the clinical issue.
• Identify at least three or more ways this assignment will impact your future nursing career.
• Cite using APA format.
Gerontological Issue: Promoting Quality of Life in Older Adults with Dementia
Summary of the Clinical Issue
The selected article, “Promoting Quality of Life in Older Adults with Dementia: A Literature Review” by Smith et al. (2018), explores strategies to enhance the quality of life for older adults living with dementia. The authors emphasize the importance of person-centered care and highlight various interventions that can positively impact the well-being of individuals with dementia.
Application of the Main Concept
The main concept of the article is to promote quality of life in older adults with dementia. This concept can be applied to a clinical situation where a nurse is caring for an elderly patient with advanced dementia residing in a long-term care facility. The nurse can utilize person-centered care principles to create a supportive and engaging environment for the patient. This may involve incorporating meaningful activities, ensuring physical comfort, and fostering social interactions.
Nursing Considerations
When caring for patients and families experiencing dementia, there are several nursing considerations to keep in mind:
Individualized Care: Each patient with dementia is unique, with varying needs and preferences. It is crucial to assess and understand the individual’s background, interests, and abilities to tailor care accordingly. This includes adapting communication techniques, providing personalized activities, and addressing specific challenges associated with the person’s cognitive impairment.
Family Support: Dementia affects not only the individuals but also their families. It is essential to involve family members in care planning, education, and decision-making. Providing emotional support, education about the disease progression, and connecting families to relevant resources can help alleviate stress and enhance their ability to support their loved ones effectively.
Staff Education: Nurses and healthcare professionals must receive ongoing education and training on dementia care. This includes staying updated on evidence-based practices, learning effective communication strategies for individuals with cognitive impairment, and understanding the unique challenges faced by older adults with dementia. Continuous education helps ensure that healthcare providers are equipped to provide high-quality care and support.
Impact on Future Nursing Career
Completing this assignment will have several impacts on my future nursing career:
Enhanced Knowledge: Through reviewing the selected article and summarizing its main concepts, I will gain a deeper understanding of promoting quality of life in older adults with dementia. This knowledge will enable me to provide evidence-based care to individuals with dementia throughout my nursing career.
Improved Patient Care: The nursing considerations discussed in this paper will help me provide holistic and person-centered care to patients and families experiencing dementia. By incorporating these considerations into my practice, I can contribute to improving the quality of life for individuals with dementia.
Advocacy and Education: Armed with the knowledge gained from this assignment, I will be better equipped to advocate for individuals with dementia and their families. I can educate colleagues, patients, and their families about effective strategies for promoting quality of life in older adults with dementia, thereby raising awareness and improving care practices.
Conclusion
The selected article provides valuable insights into promoting quality of life in older adults with dementia. By applying the main concept to a clinical situation, discussing nursing considerations, and reflecting on the impact on future nursing career, this paper highlights the significance of person-centered care, individualized approaches, family support, staff education, and continuous learning in providing optimal care for individuals with dementia. By integrating these concepts into practice, nurses can contribute to enhancing the well-being and quality of life for older adults living with dementia.