- Assessment TraitsRequires LopeswriteAssessment Description
Write a 500-750-word essay on the Stages-of-Life and the influence of age in health care from a patient’s perspective. Interview a friend or family member about that person’s experiences with the health care system. You may develop your own list of questions.
Suggested questions:
- Do you feel that your stage-of-life had any effect on your interaction with health care professionals?
- Which areas of the hospital or clinic were most concerned with your well-being and feelings?
- Was your family with you during this hospital stay or outpatient visit?
- Was your family included in your treatment, such as post-procedure instructions?
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
The healthcare system is a vital part of our lives and has a significant impact on our overall well-being. As we age, our healthcare needs change, and it is essential to understand the different stages of life and their influence on healthcare from a patient’s perspective. This essay will explore the stages of life and their impact on healthcare, as well as the influence of age on the patient’s interactions with healthcare professionals. Additionally, the essay will provide insights from a friend or family member’s experiences with the healthcare system.
Answer:
Healthcare is a fundamental aspect of our lives, and it is essential to understand its impact on different stages of life. The stages of life, such as infancy, childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and old age, are characterized by unique healthcare needs and requirements. From a patient’s perspective, each stage of life has a different impact on their interaction with healthcare professionals.
During infancy, children are highly dependent on their parents or caregivers for their health and well-being. Healthcare professionals must rely heavily on the input and observations of parents during this stage of life. In contrast, during childhood and adolescence, children have a more active role in their healthcare decisions. They begin to understand their healthcare needs and preferences and may have varying levels of autonomy from their parents or caregivers.
In adulthood, healthcare needs may vary depending on whether an individual is healthy or has an existing medical condition. Age is also a crucial factor that influences healthcare needs and how healthcare professionals interact with patients. In old age, individuals may require complex medical care, including managing chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. Ageism, or discrimination against individuals based on age, can also affect the interactions between the patients and healthcare professionals.
To gain a better understanding of the impact of age on healthcare, I interviewed a friend who had recently undergone a surgical procedure. According to my friend, her stage of life had a significant effect on her interaction with healthcare professionals. Being in her 60s, she felt that some healthcare professionals had a preconceived notion that she may not understand the procedure or its risks properly. This perception caused her to feel patronized and devalued as a patient.
Additionally, my friend pointed out that the healthcare staff involved her family in her treatment throughout her hospital stay. According to her, having her family there made her feel cared for and more comfortable. The healthcare professionals’ inclusion of her family in her post-treatment instructions also made it easier for her to understand and adhere to her care plan once she returned home.
In conclusion, understanding the different stages of life and how they influence healthcare needs and interactions between patients and healthcare professionals is essential. Ageism in healthcare exists and can contribute to negative patient experiences. Healthcare professionals should be aware of their biases and differential treatment of patients based on their age. Involving the patient’s family in their treatment can improve their overall healthcare experience and help them understand and adhere to their care plan.
