Meredith Troutman-Jordan's Theory of Successful Aging incorporates eight main themes. These are active independence, beneficial contribution to society and others, having comfort resources, freedom, having health, having a positive perspective and coping, a relationship with God, and relationships with other people (Troutman-Jordan & Staples, 2014).
Research has shown that these concepts of successful aging can be present among older adults living in many different types of settings, including assisted living communities (Kozar-Westman, Troutman-Jordan, & Nies, 2013).
This theory is probably the most closely aligned with Masters Essential VIII: Clinical Prevention and Population Health for Improving Health (American Association of Colleges of Nursing, 2011).
The elderly encompass a vulnerable population that must be considered in any effort to address the health of populations in the United States, and the Masters Essentials indicates that the health system must provide care that is responsible to the unique needs and values of patients within given populations such as elderly individuals.
The concepts of the Theory of Successful Aging and the Masters Essentials can be incorporated into daily practice by assisting elderly patients in many respects. One of the most important ways in which I can help facilitate better patient outcomes and successful aging is to prepare patients for the process of successful aging.
This means educating them on healthy lifestyle choices and better nutrition habits that can lead them to a healthier aging process. Another important way to assist patients toward successful aging is to encourage and facilitate healthy relationships with others, including family, friends, and healthcare staff.
The third way that I can assist this vulnerable population is to add my voice and serve as their advocate to those lobbying for equitable healthcare specially for the geriatric population, including our elders, to make certain that they have the comfort resources and health resources that they need in order to reach a successful advanced age.
American Association of Colleges of Nursing. (2011). The essentials of Master's education in nursing.
Kozar-Westman, M., Troutman-Jordan, M., & Nies, M. A. (2013). Successful aging among assisted living community older adults. Journal of Nursing Scholarship, 45(3), 238-246.
Troutman-Jordan, M., & Staples, J. (2014). Successful aging from the viewpoint of older adults. Research and Theory for Nursing Practice, 28(1), 87-104.