Running head: OLDER ADULT IMMERSION

Shareese Daniel
Older Adult Immersion
Georgia State University

Abstract

OLDER ADULT IMMERSION

This paper includes reflection of an immersion experience with an older adult. Prior to the
immersion, there will be expression of stereotypes made toward the older adult community. This
paper will also include the feelings after the immersion and different steps that can be made in
order to continue growth in cultural competency with older adults.

Introduction

OLDER ADULT IMMERSION

As a young adult, there is more exposure to individuals in the same age group. Interaction
and experience with older adult does not occurs frequently. Lacking exposure to older adults
allows for development of stereotypes and preconceived notions to come naturally. Failing to
realize that older adults, like any other culturally diverse group, has their differences and
variations, also promotes the development of stereotypes. It may not seem as though older adults
are oppressed but older adults are. Once reaching the age of 65, the status of older adult or senior
status is achieved according to Lum (2011, p.467), and the stereotypes and implications
experienced are countless.
Prior Thoughts
Reaching the age fifty achieved the status of a senior citizen or recognition as an older
adult. Older adults are weak and completely dependent upon help from others in order to survive.
Often times, living arrangements result in residency at a nursing home for the last years of life.
While in the nursing home, daily activities consist of playing checkers and bingo, eating blended
foods and receiving sponge baths. The mental state of older adults must be similar to one with a
mental disability. Incapable or recalling events that happened in a short time frame is another
stereotype toward older adults.
Research
Having minimum exposure to older adults resulted in research of the older adult and their
rapidly increasing population. Lum (2011, p. 467) states that the oldest old is the fastest
growing population. Oldest old in Lum text is described as individuals 80 years and older
(2011, p.467). In different parts of the world life expectancy is much lower than even the older
adult population which is 65 years. For example, in Africa, particularly Malawi, the length of life
is within the 40s (Lum, 2011, p.468). Focusing on life expectancy in comparison to men and
women, data shows that of men and women reaching age 65, women have a longer life
expectancy than men (Lum, 2011, p.468). It is also expressed that as the populations life
expectancy increases, the gender ratios decrease. With these findings in regards to life
expectancy, more frequent exposure to the older adult is expected.
Immersion Experience and After Thoughts
For an immersion, a visit and interview with an 84 year old woman was conducted. The
woman surprisingly, was very mobile. She did not need assistance from a walker or cane. Asking
of her intentions of going to a nursing home, she explained she had no intentions of making such
a transition. For an older adult, her recollection of events that occurred decades ago seemed very
vivid and detailed. Her mental state seemed perfectly health. Questioning the woman of her
current healthy physical condition she explained that she ate very health foods, ensured adequate
sleep each night, drank plenty of water and exercised. She explained that she did not want her
life to end before it actually ended. She also expressed that she did not encounter much
oppression as an older adult. The woman said she demanded respect and that what she was
given. She was not like your typical 84 year old, unless her characteristics are the ones possessed
by other older adults.
After the immersion, the realization that there is variety of characteristics across different
age groups and ethnicities of older adults. Stereotypes concerning ideas of weakness and
dependency of older adults has been dismissed.
Continued Cultural Work

OLDER ADULT IMMERSION

Although researched focused on the rapidly increasing population, it is important to learn

about different aspects as they relate to the older adult. Other aspects include, ageism, health
care, as well as assisted living to name a few. Gaining more experience with the older adult
culture will increase cultural competence. It is important to be knowledgeable of the different
diseases that comes along with older age such as dementia, Alzheimers and heart diseases.
Reading books is a great way to learn about older adults and increase cultural competence with
this group (Lum, 2011, p.479).
Conclusion
Stereotypes, misconceptions, and preconceived notions of particular groups can stem
from many different sources. Addressing these inaccuracies can be accomplished through
research and immersion. Reading about cultures where there is a lack of cultural competency
also allows a gain in cultural competency. In regards to older adults, which is a rapidly growing
population, many factors need to be addressed and recognized in order to assist and minimize
their marginalization and oppression in society.

References

OLDER ADULT IMMERSION

Lum, D. (2011). Culturally competent practice: A framework for understanding diverse groups
and justice issues (4th ed.). Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole.