Course

Practice-Informed Research in Health Systems

Document Type

Capstone

Publication Date

Fall 12-1-2024

Purpose

Aging is a universal yet profoundly individual experience characterized by physical, emotional, and spiritual changes. During this life stage, individuals' quality of life may be influenced by various factors, such as health literacy, social support, and spiritual beliefs. Understanding the intersection of these factors is essential for meeting the requirements of an aging population, especially as they encounter problems like chronic illness and end-of-life choices. Lars’ Torsnstam’s theory of gerotranscendence is the foundation of numerous theories positing aging as an intangible and cosmic process. This study aims to query on the extent to which gerotranscendence influences health literacy and end-of-life choices in adults 65 and older. This study examines older persons' attitudes and experiences of aging, highlighting the influence of health literacy in cultivating purpose and resilience. The research seeks to identify techniques that promote dignified and healthy aging by analyzing how individuals interpret their later years and manage their health.

Methods

Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the study offers quantitative data and qualitative narratives that elucidate the intricacies of this life period. 18 participants of at least 65 years of age with access to the internet were recruited using convenience sampling. The recruitment process was completed following a recruitment script formulated by the researchers where participants' email addresses were collected for informed consent and anonymous survey distribution. Voluntary participation was emphasized. Researchers used DocuSign to distribute informed consents and Google forms to construct an original survey instrument inspired by the Short-Form 36 (SF-36) made of eight mandatory multiple choice questions using likert scaling accompanied by six optional open ended questions where participants could expand on their previous responses. The GEH survey focused on querying participants on six themes; observations on gerotranscendence, perception of death and decreased fear of dying, self-definition and redefinition of identity, changes in relationships and social interactions, health literacy of end of life choices, and end-of-life choices. A final option open-ended section inviting participants to share any additional observations or insights about their understanding of gerotranscendence, health literacy and end-of-life choices along with preceding demographic questions were also included.

Findings & Conclusions

Use of SPSS to analyze quantitative data in concert with the researchers’ organization of qualitative data categorized findings into three main themes.

  • Gerotranscendence and End-of-Life Choices Correlation
    • Correlation between “quite a bit” of end-of-life preferences discussion and “always” finding a greater interest in spirituality or existential concepts was observed by the researchers
  • Perception of Death and Dying
    • Acceptance of death reflected in responses including “we live, we die, we enjoy life”, “I understand that I am mortal, I know I will eventually die”
  • Presence of Protective Factors
    • Immediate Supports: Participants credited family members, close friends and community members as current support and relevant players in end-of-life planning and execution
    • Faith in a Higher Power: 33.3% of respondents reported that they “always” experience greater interest in spirituality or existential concepts compared to earlier in life Open-ended responses mentioned faith, a higher power, heaven, church and prayer over 20 times.

    The findings enhance the awareness of aging as articulated by older persons, a phenomenon that is often underrepresented in psychometrics of analyses. The phenomenon of aging is subjective from an individual standpoint, yet objective through medical assessments. However, the aging process is not uniform as we grow older. Older adults have numerous difficulties related to socioeconomic determinants of health. Significant difference intensifies essential themes such as personal development, acceptance of mortality, and the influence of social and spiritual constructs that undermine the quality of life for many. In reviewing recommendations, our objective is to initiate discussions for formulating interventions and policies that empower older adults.

Recommendations

Future research that collaborates with older adults, their immediate supports and extended networks, as well as healthcare professionals is recommended to revive and mainstream aging frameworks that clearly define geriatric care and health-related quality of life factors that improve referral processes to geriatric care and gerontology-related services. Additional research within community settings concerning their perception of aging older adults as inspiration for collective crafting innovative and intergenerational programming, systems and resources to support aging adults invest into healthful aging.

Download

Click below to download supplemental content

4. DC_AD.pdf (388 kB)
Poster

Included in

Social Work Commons

Share

COinS