Caring for the Elderly Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Caring for the Elderly - Essay Example As studies emphasize the continued activeness contributes to longevity and health of elderly, there has been significant initiatives to increase their activeness on a personal and community level (Caring for the Elderly). The elderly should not be marginalized, set aside or to be made feel unwanted or uncared for. The motivation is for the elderly to be able to enjoy the longevity that is afforded them by new developments in medical science to the fullest. Many programs has encouraged many senior citizens to stay active or become active. This has increased their quality of life while at the same has provided essential support among the individuals in their age group (Williams & Garland 379). However, success of the programs has been limited and health departments are turning to private and community groups to improve the situation of more senior citizens. In Northern Ireland, case study programs have been launched to assess the effectiveness of physical development programs for the elderly and the leanings from the programs are to be the basis of programs to be launched in Britain in 2007 (Northern Ireland Social Care Council [NISCC]). Among the popularized programs that have initiated by the Unite Kingdom's National Health Service include community exercise programs that include Tai Chi and dance. The programs are centered on the theory that improving the level of physical activity can enhance the overall all health of the subjects, enhancing or maintained include dexterity, agility, endurance and coordination (McGuire-Snieckus et al 8). Continued physical activeness can significantly enhance everyday physical activities since muscle tone and related body functions are maintained (Caring for the Elderly). Though there are strict considerations for individuals who have existing conditions particularly those who may have conditions that impair their judgment as well as for cardio vascular or immunological conditions (Garland et al 454). The objective is to be able to not just let them enjoy the activities but to also derive pleasure and fulfillment form their physical activities. Social Care Together with the studies that give evidence that beyond the physical activity that is involved in the programs, interaction during the activities also plays an important role for the individuals participating in the programs (McGuire-Snieckus et al 11). Thus, the physical activities or therapies serve as the host for other programs designed for the age groups that also aim to enhance their life and the effectiveness of their medications and treatments. The elderly should be considered a heritage to society: treasured and valued for their lives and learning. Parts of existing rehabilitation programs for the elederly are in combicnation with juvenile programs. The elderly serve as mentors for the troubled youths providing them real life insights regarding their addiction or other conditions. The program has had success because of the relationship that is fostered among the participants and on the side of the more senior participants it allows them to share their feelings and realizations from their lives (Lalor et al) According to researches, one of the most difficult sources of problem for the elderly involves their marginalization and diminished access to social institutions and activities that