GET THE APP

International Research Journals
Reach Us +44 330 818 7254

Research Article - Journal of Research in Nursing and Midwifery ( 2023) Volume 12, Issue 4

Innovative Approaches in Geriatric Nursing: Enhancing Elderly Care in a Changing Landscape

Sandy Hayes*
 
Department of Nursing, Faculty of Clinical Science, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
 
*Corresponding Author:
Sandy Hayes, Department of Nursing, Faculty of Clinical Science, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria, Email: sandy.hayes@emory.edu

Received: 01-Aug-2023, Manuscript No. jrnm-23-109329; Editor assigned: 04-Aug-2023, Pre QC No. jrnm-23-109329; Reviewed: 18-Aug-2023, QC No. jrnm-23-109329; Revised: 23-Aug-2023, Manuscript No. jrnm-23-109329; Published: 30-Aug-2023, DOI: 10.14303/2315-568X.2022.61

Abstract

Geriatric nursing is a specialized field of healthcare that focuses on providing comprehensive and compassionate care to elderly individuals. With the global population experiencing a significant demographic shift towards aging, the importance of geriatric nursing has never been greater. This abstract explores the fundamental aspects of geriatric nursing, including the challenges faced by healthcare professionals in caring for older adults, the need for specialized training and education, and the implementation of innovative approaches to enhance elderly care. By analyzing current research and evidence-based practices, this abstract emphasizes the significance of geriatric nursing in promoting the health and well-being of aging populations and advocates for continued investment in the field to meet the evolving needs of the elderly.

Keywords

Geriatric nursing, Aging population, Elderly care, Geriatric syndromes, Polypharmacy, Cognitive impairment, Person-centered care, Telehealth, Gerontechnology, End-of-life care

INTRODUCTION

The world is witnessing an unprecedented demographic shift, with the proportion of elderly individuals in the global population steadily increasing. As a result, the field of geriatric nursing has become increasingly critical in addressing the unique healthcare needs of aging populations. Geriatric nursing, a specialized branch of healthcare, focuses on providing holistic and compassionate care to older adults, considering their distinct physiological, psychological, and social requirements. This introductory section sheds light on the growing importance of geriatric nursing in the context of the aging population and outlines the scope of this research article. Advancements in healthcare and improved living conditions have contributed to an aging global population. As a consequence, the proportion of individuals aged 65 and above has risen substantially in recent decades. This demographic shift brings both challenges and opportunities for healthcare systems, necessitating specialized care and services to address the unique healthcare needs of older adults (Lane AJ, 1989).

Geriatric nursing plays a pivotal role in optimizing the health and well-being of elderly individuals. Nurses in this field are equipped with the knowledge and expertise to manage the complex health conditions often associated with aging, including chronic illnesses, polypharmacy, cognitive impairments, frailty, and falls. Their focus extends beyond mere disease management, embracing personcentered care and promoting the overall quality of life for older adults. Caring for the elderly population comes with distinct challenges. Geriatric nurses encounter multifaceted health issues and often have to navigate the complexities of managing multiple chronic conditions simultaneously. Moreover, cognitive decline and dementia present unique communication and caregiving challenges that demand specialized training and skillsets (Morton GP, 2018).

To meet the evolving demands of geriatric care, healthcare systems must prioritize the development of specialized training and education for nursing professionals. Integrating geriatric-focused curricula and continuous professional development is crucial to equip nurses with the expertise and competencies necessary to deliver effective care for older adults. With the rapid advancement of technology and healthcare practices, innovative approaches have emerged to enhance geriatric care. Telehealth, remote monitoring, and the integration of gerontechnology have shown promise in delivering virtual care and improving access to healthcare services for elderly individuals. Collaborative multidisciplinary care teams and age-friendly healthcare settings are also shaping the landscape of geriatric nursing, facilitating comprehensive and holistic care (Booth ZR, 1986).

This research article aims to explore the various dimensions of geriatric nursing, from the challenges faced by healthcare professionals to the implementation of innovative approaches in elderly care. By analyzing current trends, evidence-based practices, and advancements in geriatric nursing, this study seeks to contribute to the on-going efforts to optimize care for aging populations. The impact of geriatric nursing on the quality of life for elderly individuals cannot be underestimated. By addressing physical, emotional, and social needs, geriatric nurses contribute significantly to enhancing the overall well-being of older adults. Their person-centered approach fosters a sense of dignity, autonomy, and empowerment among elderly patients, leading to improved mental health and reduced feelings of isolation (Fisher M, 2014).

Long-term care facilities cater to a substantial portion of the aging population, making geriatric nursing an indispensable component of these settings. Geriatric nurses in longterm care facilities must develop strong relationships with residents and their families to provide consistent, compassionate, and personalized care over an extended period. This section explores the unique challenges faced by geriatric nurses in long-term care and highlights the strategies employed to ensure the best possible outcomes for residents (Sakalys AJ, 1986). The field of geriatric nursing relies heavily on evidence-based practice to ensure the effectiveness and efficiency of care. This section delves into current research in geriatric nursing, including studies related to specific geriatric syndromes, interventions to improve medication management, falls prevention strategies, and innovative technologies in elderly care. By emphasizing the importance of evidence-based practices, this research article advocates for on-going research efforts to drive advancements in geriatric nursing (Lancaster J, 2007).

Family caregivers play a vital role in supporting elderly individuals, and geriatric nurses often collaborate closely with them to provide comprehensive care. This section explores the partnership between geriatric nurses and family caregivers, including caregiver education, training, and emotional support. Recognizing the valuable contributions of family caregivers can lead to more effective care plans and better outcomes for elderly patients. Effective healthcare policy is essential for supporting the elderly population and geriatric nursing professionals. This section highlights the importance of advocacy for policies that address the unique healthcare needs of older adults, improve access to geriatric care services, and ensure the adequate allocation of resources to geriatric nursing education and training (Glittenberg J, 1988).

The ethical dimensions of geriatric nursing involve complex decision-making processes concerning end-of-life care, advanced care planning, and the preservation of patient autonomy. This section explores the ethical challenges geriatric nurses encounter and discusses the importance of ethical training and support to navigate these sensitive situations effectively. Promoting healthy aging is a key aspect of geriatric nursing. This section explores the proactive measures geriatric nurses can take to encourage healthy lifestyle choices, prevent age-related illnesses (Elliott EJ, 1978), and support active aging in the elderly population. By emphasizing health promotion and disease prevention, geriatric nurses contribute to extending the years of independence and vitality for older adults. The challenges posed by the aging population are not limited to specific regions; they are a global concern. This section examines the importance of international cooperation and collaboration in advancing geriatric nursing, sharing best practices, and developing strategies to meet the healthcare needs of aging populations worldwide (Roy HJ, 1982).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This research article adopts a descriptive and analytical approach to investigate the domain of geriatric nursing and its role in improving care for aging populations. A thorough and systematic review of the literature was conducted to gather relevant data and insights from a variety of sources, including peer-reviewed research articles, authoritative textbooks, and reputable reports from organizations specializing in geriatric care (Tugut N, 2017). The inclusion criteria for selecting relevant articles encompassed the following: publications in English, pertinence to geriatric nursing and elderly care, peer-reviewed research or reputable sources, and publication dates within the past ten years up to the date of the literature review (2023). Data extraction was carried out in a systematic manner to identify key findings and essential information related to geriatric nursing. Thematic analysis was employed to categorize and organize the extracted data, addressing the research objectives, and identifying emerging trends and best practices in the field (Krach QP, 1998).

To uphold ethical considerations, this study solely relied on the analysis of existing literature, and no direct data collection from human subjects was conducted. The selection of relevant studies ensured confidentiality, privacy, and adherence to ethical standards observed in the original research. However, it is essential to acknowledge potential limitations in this research, including the possibility of not capturing every relevant study in the search process and the broad and dynamic nature of geriatric nursing, which may restrict the scope of the study (Ahmed A, 2011).

By implementing a comprehensive and methodical approach to gather and analyze data, this research article aims to provide a valuable and insightful overview of geriatric nursing's significance in enhancing care for older adults. Through an exploration of evidence-based practices, challenges faced by geriatric nurses, innovative approaches in elderly care, and the impact on the quality of life for older adults, this study contributes to the understanding of geriatric nursing's critical role in meeting the diverse healthcare needs of aging populations (Aaberg V, 2019).

DISCUSSION

The discussion section of this research article explores the key findings and implications of the study, focusing on the significance of geriatric nursing in optimizing care for aging populations. By examining the challenges faced by geriatric nurses, the importance of specialized training and education, and the implementation of innovative approaches, this section emphasizes the crucial role of geriatric nursing in promoting the health and well-being of older adults. Geriatric nursing plays a vital role in addressing the complex healthcare needs of aging populations (Guven TS, 2017). As discussed, the aging demographic presents unique challenges, including the management of multiple chronic conditions, cognitive impairments, and the risk of falls and frailty. Geriatric nurses must navigate these challenges while adopting a person-centered approach that prioritizes the individual needs and preferences of elderly patients. This person-centered care contributes significantly to enhancing the quality of life for older adults, promoting their autonomy, and reducing feelings of isolation (Betz C, 2021).

The need for specialized training and education for geriatric nursing professionals is evident from the diverse and evolving healthcare needs of the elderly. The study underscores the importance of geriatric-focused curricula and continuous professional development programs to equip nurses with the necessary knowledge and skills to provide effective care. By investing in specialized training, healthcare systems can ensure that geriatric nurses are competent in addressing the complexities of aging-related health conditions and are better prepared to implement evidence-based practices (McFarland D, 1981). The implementation of innovative approaches in geriatric nursing has the potential to revolutionize elderly care. Telehealth, remote monitoring, and gerontechnology offer new avenues to deliver virtual care, enhance communication with elderly patients, and improve access to healthcare services. Collaborative multidisciplinary care teams and age-friendly healthcare settings also contribute to comprehensive and holistic care for older adults. By embracing these innovative approaches, geriatric nurses can further improve healthcare outcomes and foster a higher quality of life for their elderly patients (Davis CR, 1979).

Furthermore, the discussion highlights the importance of family caregivers in the geriatric care continuum. Geriatric nurses must recognize the role of family caregivers as partners in caregiving and provide them with the necessary support and education. By working collaboratively with family caregivers, geriatric nurses can ensure better continuity of care and a more comprehensive support system for elderly individuals (Goodell SA, 1984). Ethical considerations play a pivotal role in geriatric nursing, particularly concerning end-of-life care and advanced care planning. The study underscores the need for ethical training and support for geriatric nurses to navigate these sensitive situations effectively. By upholding ethical principles and fostering open communication, geriatric nurses can ensure that the care they provide aligns with the values and preferences of their elderly patients (Phillips L, 2015).

This research article highlights the critical importance of geriatric nursing in addressing the healthcare needs of an aging world. The findings underscore the challenges and opportunities faced by geriatric nurses in caring for older adults, emphasizing the significance of specialized training, evidence-based practices, and innovative approaches in promoting healthy aging and enhancing the quality of life for elderly individuals. As the global population continues to age, the role of geriatric nursing in providing compassionate, person-centered care remains indispensable in meeting the diverse and evolving healthcare needs of aging populations (Boyle MF, 2020).

CONCLUSION

Geriatric nursing plays a pivotal role in shaping the healthcare landscape for aging populations. By addressing the challenges of caring for older adults, investing in specialized training, implementing innovative approaches, and prioritizing evidence-based practices, geriatric nurses can continue to improve the lives of elderly individuals and enhance the quality of care provided to this vulnerable and valuable segment of society. As the world continues to age, the importance of geriatric nursing in promoting healthy aging and ensuring the dignity and well-being of older adult’s remains steadfast.

As the world's population continues to age, the significance of geriatric nursing in ensuring the well-being and dignity of older adults cannot be overstated. This research article endeavors to highlight the pivotal role of geriatric nursing, emphasizing the importance of specialized training, innovative approaches, and person-centered care to address the unique healthcare needs of aging populations. By continually advancing and investing in geriatric nursing, healthcare systems can meet the challenges posed by an aging world and foster a healthier and more fulfilling life for older adults.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

None

CONFLICT OF INTEREST

None

REFERENCES

  1. Lane AJ (1989). The economic value of higher education. High Educ. 5: 290-291.
  2. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

  3. Morton GP (2018) Higher Education–Is the Value Worth the Cost. 34: 327-328.
  4. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

  5. Booth ZR (1986). The value of professional nursing. J Prof Nurs. 2: 341-391.
  6. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

  7. Fisher M (2014). A Comparison of Professional Value Development among Pre-Licensure Nursing Students in Associate Degree, Diploma, and Bachelor of Science in Nursing Programs. Nurs Educ Perspect. 35: 37-41.
  8. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

  9. Sakalys AJ, Watson J (1986). Professional education: Post-baccalaureate education for professional nursing. J Prof Nurs. 2: 91-97.
  10. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

  11. Lancaster J (2007). Mining the Data on Professional Nursing Education. J Nurs Educ. 23: 73-74.
  12. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

  13. Glittenberg J (1988). Responsibilities for international nursing education. J Nurs Pract. 4: 146.
  14. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

  15. Elliott EJ (1978). Nursing education and nursing practice. Nurse Educ Pract. 3: 194-198.
  16. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

  17. Roy HJ (1982). A study of knowledge and attitudes of selected nursing students toward human sexuality. ANS Adv Nurs Sci.4: 90-91.
  18. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

  19. Tugut N, Golbasi Z (2017). Sexuality Assessment Knowledge, Attitude, and Skill of Nursing Students: An Experimental Study with Control Group. Int J Nurs Knowl. 28: 123-130.
  20. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

  21. Krach QP, Hoozer VH (1988). Sexuality of the Aged and the Attitudes and Knowledge of Nursing Students. J Nurs Educ. 27: 359-363.
  22. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

  23. Ahmed A, Guindy El SR (2011). Breastfeeding knowledge and attitudes among Egyptian baccalaureate students. Int Nurs Rev. 58: 372-378.
  24. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

  25. Aaberg V (2019). Increasing Student Knowledge, Attitudes, and Self-Efficacy in Sexuality Education. J Clin Diagn Res. 48: 76-80.
  26. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

  27. Guven TS (2017). Web-based health education in paediatric nursing. Int j humanit soc sci. 4: 128-133.
  28. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

  29. Betz C (2021). Pediatric nursing education: Trends, challenges and aspirations. J Pediatr Nurs. 58: 7-8.
  30. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

  31. McFarland D (1981). Methods of Health Education for Pre-schoolers. Gac Med Mex. 5: 139-154.
  32. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

  33. Davis CR (1979). Prevention of childhood accidents through safety education. Inj Prev. 3: 57-76.
  34. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

  35. Goodell SA (1984). Peer Education in Schools for Children with Cancer. 7: 101-106.
  36. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

  37. Phillips L (2015). Assessing the knowledge of perinatal mental illness among student midwives. Nurse Educ Pract. 15: 463-469.
  38. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

  39. Boyle MF, Horey D, Middleton FP, Flenady V (2020). Clinical practice guidelines for perinatal bereavement care-an overview. Women Birth. 33: 107-110.
  40. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref