SUPPORT THE ELDERLY PERSONS TO MEET

THEIR EMOTIONAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL

NEEDS.

NAME: ANDREA RAMSAY

COURSE: GERIATRIC NURSING
SCHOOL: DISTINCTION COLLEGE
CAMPUS: KINGSTON
TEACHER: MRS SEILL
JANUARY-APRIL
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Acknowledgement……………………………………………………………….………p3
Introduction………………..……………………………………………………..………p4
What is supporting the elderly person to meet their emotional and psychological
needs………………………………………………………………………………..pg5-7
Methods used to support the elderly persons to meet their emotional and psychological
needs……………………………………………………………………………….pg.8-10
Equipment used to support the elderly persons to meet their emotional and psychological
needs………………………………………………………………………………….pg.11-13
Bibliography…………………………………………………………………………pg.14
Glossary……………………………………………………………………………..pg.15-17
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I would like to express my deepest gratitude to my family for helping me in the making of
this project. It was through their love and encouragement that I gained the motivation needed
to complete this project. A special thanks to my son Ethan as he helped both find information
and appropriate pictures to match them. Thank you.
 INTRODUCTION

In geriatric nursing Supporting the emotional and psychological needs of the elderly is an
important part of caring for their overall well-being. People may experience a variety of
physical, emotional, and psychological changes as they age, which can have an impact on
their mental health and well-being.
WHAT IS SUPPORTING THE ELDERLY PERSON TO MEET
THEIR EMOTIONAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL NEEDS

Promoting the psychological and emotional requirements of the elderly is an important part
of caring for their general health. Individuals may experience a variety of physical,
emotional, and psychological changes as they age, which can have an impact on their mental
health and well-being. Here are some ideas for helping elderly people meet their emotional
and psychological needs:
1. Be present and attentive: One of the most important ways to support the emotional
and psychological needs of elderly persons is to be present and attentive to them.
Listen to their concerns, validate their feelings, and be empathetic towards their
experiences.

2. Encourage social interaction: Social isolation and loneliness can have a significant
impact on the emotional and psychological wellbeing of elderly persons. Encourage
them to participate in social activities, connect with friends and family, and join local
senior centres or clubs.
3. Help them maintain independence: Aging can often lead to a loss of independence,
which can be a significant source of stress and anxiety. Help elderly persons maintain
their independence by supporting their mobility, assisting with daily tasks, and
providing resources for maintaining their health.

4. Provide emotional support: Elderly persons may experience a range of emotions,

including sadness, grief, and anxiety. Provide emotional support by being available to
talk, offering reassurance, and helping them find ways to cope with their feelings.

5. Offer opportunities for mental stimulation: Mental stimulation is important for

maintaining cognitive function and preventing cognitive decline. Offer opportunities
for mental stimulation, such as puzzles, games, or learning new skills.

6. Monitor their mental health: Keep an eye out for signs of depression, anxiety, or other
mental health issues. If you notice any changes in their behaviour or mood, encourage
them to seek professional help or consult with their healthcare provider.
7. Consider professional support: If you are unable to provide the level of emotional and
psychological support that an elderly person needs, consider hiring a professional
caregiver, therapist, or counsellor who specializes in working with elderly persons.
 METHODS TO SUPPORT THE ELDERLY PERSON TO
MEET THEIR EMOTIONAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL
NEEDS.

1. Have Meaningful Relationships

Older adults require meaningful relationships and experiences. Most people tend to have
casual acquaintances in their younger years, but with age comes depth in relationships. Older
adults don’t want your pity; they want intentionality. They want to know that you genuinely
care about them, not just curbing a personal sense of guilt.
Companion care can be an all-embracing resource for older adults who need a professional
career and a friend. At its core, caregiving is a relational commitment to care for others. A
meaningful relationship is cultivated between caregivers and older adults through dedicated,
personal care.

2. Regular Social Interactions

Cognitive decline may cause unintentional social withdrawal. However, social interactions
can play a positive role in counteracting cognitive decline. During COVID-19, social
interactions are even more limited than before for older adults.
At the very least, call your aging family members to check-in. Here’s are a few ideas to get
the conversation going:
Ask them for a recap of their day.
Ask them how they’re feeling (mentally, emotionally, etc).
Ask them if they’ve invested time into a new or existing hobby.
Ask about their childhood and what life was like back then to work out their memory
muscles.
In general, ask open-ended questions to prompt a long response. The best thing you can do in
a conversation with an older adult is listen. They want to know that their thoughts and input
are valuable to you.

3. What Are the Psychological Needs of the Elderly?

Mental health issues among older adults are widespread. More than 2 million Americans aged
65 and older live with some form of depression. Although depression is more common in
younger adults, the onset of depression in older adults can result from a chronic illness
diagnosis, bereavement, and loss of social contact.
Research suggests that late-life depression and Alzheimer’s disease may correlate. As the
family member of an older adult, provide mental stimulation when you can:
  Play memory games.
 Offer a space for them to express their genuine thoughts and feelings.
 Give elderly parents a scrapbook and ask if they can recall positive memories.
 Even if it’s over the phone, ask aging loved ones to repeat something they just said or
reminisce about past experiences to help strengthen cognitive function.

4. What Are the Emotional Needs of the Elderly?

As you can imagine, emotional changes in the elderly are a mixed bag of highs and lows.
Some older adults report feeling happier daily compared to younger adults, while others
experience geriatric depression.
Studies have shown that older women who report low levels of emotional support are twice
as likely to die as those with high levels of emotional support. Sometimes we can take
emotional support for granted when we have a large community around us.
However, your aging parent most likely doesn’t have a large community providing them with
significant emotional support. Affirm the value of your aging loved one every chance you
get, and do your best to empathize with them.
To answer the question, “what are the emotional needs of the elderly?” let’s look at the top 3
emotional needs of the elderly to keep in mind.

 3 Emotional Needs of the Elderly

As your parents age, they may feel useless, lonely, angry, or even in denial about their
wellness and capabilities. Living alone may further exacerbate negative feelings. Here are 3
emotional needs of the elderly loved ones in your life:

 Safety & Security

Did you know that older adults fear falling more than robbery, financial stress, or health
issues? Providing a safe, secure environment for older adults is crucial to their wellbeing.
Regularly assess your aging parent’s home for fall risks such as clutter. Check if they’re
locking their doors at night or install a home security system to ensure their safety.
  Connection
People need connection, no matter their age. Feeling disconnected emotionally and physically
from people can be detrimental to one’s health. Due to COVID-19, 56% of older adults
reported feeling isolated with infrequent social interaction. Use technology to connect with
aging family members near and far.

 Autonomy
Seniors have been independent adults their whole lives. Growing old and relying on others
can be a tough transition for them. In-home caregivers are a great option for older adults who
want to retain independence but need regular care. An in-home caregiver fulfils the emotional
needs of elderly people and physical needs, such as meal preparation, bathing, dressing, etc
EQUIPMENT USED TO SUPPORT THE ELDERLY PERSONS
TO MEET THEIR EMOTIONAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL
NEEDS.

There are various types of equipment and assistive devices that can be used to support the
emotional and psychological needs of elderly persons. Here are some examples:

1. Telehealth technology: Telehealth technology, such as video conferencing software,

can be used to connect elderly persons with mental health professionals, counsellors,
and therapists, allowing them to receive mental health support from the comfort of
their own homes.

2. Personal emergency response systems (PERS): PERS devices can provide peace of
mind for elderly persons and their loved ones by allowing them to call for help in the
event of an emergency. These devices typically come in the form of wearable
pendants or wristbands with an emergency button that can be pressed to alert a
monitoring service.

3. Cognitive assistive technology: Cognitive assistive technology, such as memory aids,

reminder systems, and organizational tools, can help elderly persons manage their
daily routines and stay on top of important tasks. These devices can be especially
 helpful for elderly persons who may be experiencing memory loss or other cognitive
challenges.

4. Mobility aids: Mobility aids, such as walkers, canes, and wheelchairs, can help elderly
persons maintain their independence and continue engaging in daily activities. These
devices can also reduce the risk of falls and injuries, which can have a significant
impact on an elderly person's emotional and psychological wellbeing.

5. Sensory stimulation equipment: Sensory stimulation equipment, such as aromatherapy

diffusers, music players, and massage chairs, can help create a calming and soothing
environment for elderly persons. These devices can be especially helpful for those
who may be experiencing anxiety or other emotional challenges.
 6. Assistive communication devices: Assistive communication devices, such as speech-
to-text software, can help elderly persons who may have difficulty speaking or
communicating effectively. These devices can help facilitate communication and
reduce feelings of frustration or isolation.

Overall, the use of equipment and assistive devices can be an effective way to support the
emotional and psychological needs of elderly persons, helping them maintain their
independence and improve their overall quality of life.
 BIBLIOGRAPHY

 https://stowellassociates.com/what-are-the-emotional-needs-of-the-elderly/
#:~:text=As%20the%20family%20member%20of,they%20can%20recall
%20positive%20memories.
 https://jis.gov.jm/information/get-the-facts/government-support-for-the-elderly/
 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4339950/
 https://bmcgeriatr.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12877-019-1189-9
 https://study.com/academy/lesson/informal-formal-support-systems-for-older-
adults.html
 GLOSSARY

Age- Age refers to the length of time that a person has lived or the number of years since
their birth. It is a measure of how long a person has been alive and is often used as a key
factor in determining eligibility for various services, benefits, and programs, as well as in
determining the risks and potential health issues associated with different stages of life. Age
can also be used to describe different phases of life, such as childhood, adolescence,
adulthood, and old age.
Anxiety- Anxiety is a natural response to stress or perceived danger, which can be
experienced by anyone at any age. It is a feeling of fear or unease about something that may
happen in the future, and can manifest in a variety of physical and emotional symptoms.
Anxiety can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, environmental factors, and
life experiences. It can be a normal and adaptive response in some situations, such as when
faced with danger or a stressful situation, but when it becomes excessive or chronic, it can
interfere with daily life and lead to significant distress.
Aromatherapy- Aromatherapy is a complementary therapy that uses essential oils extracted
from plants to improve physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Essential oils are highly
concentrated extracts that are derived from various parts of plants, including leaves, flowers,
stems, and roots. Aromatherapy is typically administered through inhalation or topical
application. Inhalation methods include using a diffuser or inhaling the scent directly from
the bottle. Topical application can include massage, bath soaks, and compresses.
Assistive- Assistive refers to any device, technology, or service that is designed to help
individuals with disabilities or functional limitations to perform daily activities and tasks.
These can include physical, cognitive, sensory, or communicative impairments.
Attentive- Attentive refers to being fully focused and engaged in an activity or interaction,
often characterized by active listening, careful observation, and responsiveness to the needs
and feelings of others. When someone is attentive, they are actively paying attention to the
present moment and the people or things around them.
Cognitive- Cognitive refers to mental processes related to the acquisition, processing, and
retention of information, including perception, attention, memory, language, reasoning, and
problem-solving. Cognitive abilities are crucial for learning, communication, and decision-
making.
Communication- Communication is the process of sharing information, ideas, and feelings
between individuals or groups through verbal or nonverbal means. Effective communication
involves not only sending a message but also receiving and understanding the message.
Depression- Depression is a mood disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness,
hopelessness, and loss of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable.
Depression can affect how a person thinks, feels, and behaves and can interfere with daily life
activities.
Devices- Devices refer to electronic or mechanical tools that are designed to perform specific
functions or tasks. Devices can be used for a wide range of purposes, including
communication, entertainment, education, health monitoring, and assistance with daily living
activities.
Elderly- Elderly refers to individuals who are in their later years of life, typically 65 years or
older. As people age, they may experience changes in physical, cognitive, and emotional
health, which can impact their ability to perform daily living activities and maintain social
connections.
Emotional- Emotional health refers to the ability to understand and manage one's emotions in
a healthy and productive way. Emotional well-being is an essential component of overall
health and can impact one's relationships, work performance, and quality of life.
Empathetic- Being empathetic means having the ability to understand and share the feelings
of another person. Empathy involves putting oneself in another person's shoes and
recognizing their perspective, emotions, and experiences without judgment or bias. It is an
important quality for building strong and meaningful relationships, promoting effective
communication, and fostering a sense of connection and understanding.
Equipment- Any tool, device, or machine used to perform a specific task or function is
referred to as equipment. Equipment can include a variety of devices and aids designed to
promote comfort, safety, and well-being in the context of supporting the emotional and
psychological needs of the elderly. Hearing aids, mobility aids, communication aids, personal
emergency response systems (PERS), telehealth devices, comfort items such as weighted
blankets or aromatherapy diffusers, and memory aids such as reminder apps or digital
organizers are examples of equipment that may be used for this purpose. The use of
appropriate equipment and assistive devices can help to improve elderly people's quality of
life and emotional well-being, allowing them to maintain their independence and remain
connected with others.
Independence- Independence refers to an individual's ability to take care of themselves and
manage their daily activities without relying on others for assistance. For elderly individuals,
maintaining independence can be important for their emotional well-being, as it allows them
to maintain a sense of control over their lives and stay connected with others.
Interaction- Interaction refers to the exchange of information or communication between two
or more individuals. In the context of supporting the emotional and psychological needs of
elderly individuals, positive interaction with family members, caregivers, and other
individuals can be an important factor in promoting well-being.
Isolation- Isolation refers to the experience of being separated from others or feeling alone,
which can negatively impact emotional and psychological well-being. For elderly individuals,
social isolation can be a common issue, particularly if they are no longer able to participate in
activities or maintain relationships as they once did.
Mental- Mental refers to anything related to the mind or the processes of thought, emotion,
and behaviour. When it comes to the elderly, mental health can be particularly important as
they face unique challenges and changes as they age.
Mobility- Mobility refers to the ability to move freely and independently. Maintaining
mobility is important for elderly individuals as it can help to promote physical health and
well-being, as well as maintain a sense of independence and quality of life.
Professional- Professional in the context of elderly care refers to individuals who have
specific training and expertise in providing care for elderly individuals. This can include
healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses, and physical therapists, who provide medical
care and rehabilitation services to elderly patients. It can also include caregivers and social
workers who provide assistance with daily activities, emotional support, and social
engagement.
Psychological- Psychological refers to anything related to the mental processes and behaviors
of individuals. In the context of elderly care, addressing psychological needs can be
particularly important as aging can bring about a range of changes and challenges that can
impact emotional well-being.
Relationship- Relationships are an important aspect of elderly care as social interaction and
companionship can help to prevent loneliness and isolation, which can have negative impacts
on mental and physical health. Maintaining social connections and relationships can also help
to promote a sense of purpose and meaning in life for elderly individuals.
Sensory- Sensory refers to anything related to the five senses: sight, hearing, taste, touch, and
smell. In the context of elderly care, addressing sensory needs is important for promoting the
emotional and psychological well-being of elderly individuals.
As individuals age, they may experience changes in their sensory perception, such as
changes in vision, hearing, or taste. This can impact their ability to engage with their
environment and can lead to feelings of frustration or isolation. Addressing these changes can
involve interventions such as hearing aids, eyeglasses, or modifications to the physical
environment to improve visibility or reduce glare.
Social- Social refers to anything related to interactions and relationships with others. In the
context of elderly care, addressing social needs is important for promoting emotional and
psychological well-being, as social isolation and loneliness can have negative impacts on
mental and physical health.
Technology- Technology can play an important role in elderly care, particularly in supporting
the emotional and psychological needs of elderly individuals. There are a variety of
technological devices and tools that can be used to improve the quality of life for elderly
individuals including: Telehealth Wearable devices, Assistive technology, Social media and
video conferencing, Entertainment devices