CHRONIC ILLNESS DISABILITY THROUGH THE LIFE CYCLE Terms

CHRONIC ILLNESS & DISABILITY THROUGH THE LIFE CYCLE

Terms Although sometimes used interchangeably, the following terms have separate meanings: Impairment refers to the loss or abnormality of psychological, physical, or anatomical structure or function at the system or organ level that may or may not be permanent and that may or may not result in disability. Disability refers to an individual limitation or restriction of an activity as the result of an impairment. Handicap refers to the disadvantage to the individual resulting from an impairment or disability that presents a barrier to fulfilling a role or reaching a goal.

Introduction Development is a continuous process from infancy to old age and death Psychological and cognitive transition Individuals’ age and developmental stage influence their reactions to chronic illness or disability and the problems and consequences they experience Stress and demands of each developmental stage are different

Introduction – Cont. v v v Chronic illness and disability at various stages of development can affect: the independence, self-control, and life skills. Since the needs, responsibilities, and resources of adults differ from those of children, the impact of chronic illness or disability in later years differs from its impact in young adulthood

Introduction – Cont. Those with chronic illness or disability must be considered in the context of their developmental stage and the way in which the changes and limitations associated with their condition influence the attitudes, perceptions, actions, and behaviors characteristic of that stage. Stages of development serve as a guideline not only in: Assessment of individual’s functional capacity Determining potential stressors and reactions Encouraging normal progression from one stage to

Impact of Chronic Illness and Disability v v v The extent of impact is dependent on: the nature of the condition individuals’ pre-illness/disability personality the meaning of the illness or disability to individuals’ current life circumstances the degree of family and social support

Childhood

Childhood Increased risk of emotional and behavioral disorders Early life children develop Sense of trust in others Sense of autonomy Awareness and mastery of the environment Balance between encouraging initiative and setting limits

Childhood – Cont. Chronic illness or disability can impede the attainment of normal developmental goals Repeated and prolonged hospitalization Physical and cognitive limitations Overly protective caregivers Overly sympathetic caregivers Communication skills limitations result of Congenital/early childhood conditions

Childhood – Cont. Each stage feels like a new disability Professionals should: Facilitate experiences that foster normal development Enhance children’s ability to reach their full potential

Childhood – Cont. For most children, entering school expands their world beyond the scope of their family; Values, rules, and expectations Larger social environment Sense of initiative and production Awareness of special strengths Approval, encouragement, and acceptance by others Self-confidence School-related problems reflect on Children’s psychological well-being (self-esteem and selfconfidence) Interaction with other children Academic performance

Adolescence

Adolescence When does Adolescence begin? Acceptance by peers need to establish independence, Rebel against parents and caregivers Physical maturation Preoccupation Body image with body

Adolescence – Cont. Alteration in physical appearance caused by a chronic illness or disability can influence adolescents’ : perception of body image and self-concept. Secondary disabilities associated with psychosocial factors Disrupt relationships with peers, resulting in delayed social and emotional development Characteristics of adolescent development may affect treatment necessitated by a chronic illness or disability.

Young Adulthood

Young Adulthood Characteristics Productive members of society Vocational goals Intimate relationships Social responsibility Established intimate relationships Having kids Independence from families vs. family overprotectiveness

Middle age

Middle age v Sandwich generation? ! Reassessment of goals and relationships Illness or disability during middle age can interfere with further occupational development and may even result in : Early retirement; Such changes can have a significant impact on: Economic well-being v Identity, self-concept, and v self-esteem v v Altering roles and responsibilities

Older Adulthood

Older Adulthood v v v Characteristics: Ideally, older adults have adapted to the disappointments of life and have accepted their own life and death. Additional physical and cognitive limitations in addition to those due to aging as well as losses of visual and hearing acuity. Spouse disability or death. Nursing homes Economic barriers

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