The two main social issues impacting the rights of older individuals are ageism and financial insecurity. Ageism in healthcare is a common problem that has detrimental consequences on older people’s health (Nemiroff, 2022). The elderly are frequently subjected to abuse and marginalization while seeking assistance from various amenities. Ageism manifests itself in a variety of ways, ranging from “micro” individual problems such as paternalistic treatments to “macro” system challenges such as hurdles to swift and appropriate services (Nemiroff, 2022, p. 118). Role-modeling and the hidden curriculum might unwittingly transfer the mindset of stereotyping in nursing practices. Generally, many outmoded assumptions about senior citizens often arise, contributing to seclusion and marginalization in many areas.
The social issues impacting the aged are exacerbated by their monetary status. Ironically, life expectancy has improved, while the job market and retirement have not progressed at the same rate. Many older people are capable and eager to work beyond the standard set, but the chances are limited. Furthermore, because so much is currently done online or virtually, monitoring day-to-day money and saving for later life can be difficult for older generations. They may be more susceptible to fraud as a result of this. Unfortunately, the issue has been exacerbated even in the care system, where there have been adoption coverages and new health information system that requires the input of money and intellectual.
Ageism can be solved by devising new ways to incorporate older people into society through social events. Intergenerational training, educational initiatives, and strong leadership from organizations to achieve policy and practice reforms are all strategies to combat ageism and offer ethical healthcare (Nemiroff, 2022). In general, policymakers and caregivers can not only assist people in preserving a sense of self-esteem and dignity, but they can equally access the information and expertise they possess, which is critical for society’s progress. Many older persons require extensive care when complete autonomy is no longer possible. Some individuals may find this care to be prohibitively expensive or inaccessible. Therefore, financial insecurity can be addressed by keeping the older generation at work even beyond retirement, enacting health coverage policies and providing benefits or incentives.
Nurses’ participation in the Connecticut Nurses Association’s (CTNA) numerous committees can make a difference in this situation. The majority of nurses are unaware of the common atypical presentations of various illnesses in the elderly (Inouye, 2021). However, nursing staff involvement in the CTNA can help increase their knowledge about age related discriminations and consequences. Carers who influence programs assist in shaping the treatment that is offered today and in the future. The initiatives also have a bearing on how resources are allocated to facilitate healthcare delivery for the elderly. Additionally, it can provide caregivers with the necessary skills and awareness of the regional or statewide ethical principles needed for quality care provision. Teamwork between nursing leaders in CT is one example of working together to solve social issues on a regional level. Enhanced professional training and education in the particular characteristics of diagnosing and treating older adults will aid in the fight against ageism in healthcare (Inouye, 2021). Generally, this is based on a concept that values all individuals holistically and strives to promote individuals’ health irrespective of age, gender, or race throughout their lives. Therefore, nursing staff must consider themselves as experts with the ability and obligation to affect present and emerging healthcare delivery systems if they are to be impactful.
References
Inouye, S. K. (2021). Creating an anti-ageist healthcare system to improve care for our current and future selves. Nature Aging, 1(2), 150-152. Web.
Nemiroff, L. (2022). We can do better: Addressing ageism against older adults in healthcare. Healthcare Management Forum, 35(2), 118-122. Web.