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Chapter 2 Theories of Aging TERMS TO KNOW Aging: the process of growing older that begins at birth Nonstochastic theories: explain biological aging as resulting from a complex, predetermined process Stochastic theories: view the effects of biological aging as resulting from random assaults from both the internal and external environment Introduction No single known factor causes or prevents aging; no one theory can explain the complexities of aging Theories of aging offer varying degrees of universality, validity, and reliability Research efforts aim toward better understanding of aging process to guide health and postpone negative consequences Biological Theories of Aging Biological aging differs from species to species No two individuals age identically Theorists divide the many factors, both internal and external of the human body, into two categories: stochastic and nonstochastic KEY CONCEPT The aging process varies not only among individuals, but also within different body systems of the same person Stochastic Theories Cross-linking theory Free radicals and lipofuscin theories Wear and tear theories Evolutionary theories Mutation accumulation theory (page 14) Antagonistic pleiotropy theory Disposable soma theory Biogerontology Non-stochastic Theories Apoptosis Genetic theories Autoimmune reactions Changes in immune function with aging Neuroendocrine and neurochemical theories Radiation theories Nutrition theories Environmental theories ERROR THEORY Mutation of DNA Perpetuation of mutation during cell in body Increasing number of mutant cells in body Malfunction of tissue, organs, and systems Decline in body functions Question Which of the following statements best describes the autoimmune theory of aging? a. b. c. d. Genetic programs determine life expectancy Cells undergo change and the body identifies them as foreign Organs decline as a result of cellular mutations Failure of the production of a growth substance causes aging cells to die Answer b. Cells undergo change and the body identifies them as foreign One hypothesis regarding the role of autoimmune reactions in the aging process is that the cells undergo changes with age, and the body misidentifies these aged, irregular cells as foreign agents and develops a plan to attack them. Question Is the following statement True or False? The genetic theories of aging best describe how and why a person ages. Answer False No single factor causes or prevents aging; therefore, it is unrealistic to think that one theory can explain the complexities of the aging process. Sociologic Theories of Aging Explore mental processes, behaviors, and feelings throughout life span Disengagement theory Activity theory Continuity theory Subculture theory Age stratification theory Question Is the following statement True or False? The continuity theory of aging states that personality and basic patterns of behavior are said to remain unchanged as the individual ages. Answer True The continuity theory of aging relates personality and predisposition toward certain actions in old age to similar factors during other phases of the life cycle. For instance, activists at 20 years of age will most likely be activists at 70 years of age. Psychological Theories of Aging Explore mental processes, behavior, and feelings through life span Developmental tasks Gerotranscendence KEY CONCEPT Nurses can promote joy and a sense of purpose in the older adults by viewing old age as an opportunity for continued development and satisfaction rather than a depressing useless period of life. Applying Theories of Aging to Nursing Practice Biological, psychological, and social processes of aging interrelated and interdependent No single theory can adequately explain the aging process Knowledge of all theories can guide nursing interventions to promote health and longevity Nurses assist older adults in experiencing health, fulfillment, and sense of well-being