Throughout the semester we have examined the complex challenges and adaptations that aging adults face through a holistic and caring perspective. The past two summers I have had the opportunity to be a CNA at two different nursing homes, where I have experienced a lot. I feel as though this class really brought my understanding to the next level and I constantly found myself thinking back to personal experiences I have had. An insight that I will keep in mind when caring for this population is that although their body is aging, they may not feel they are that age mentally. Another insight I will keep in mind is how medication can affect the older population and is at times mistaken for the “normal” aging process.

            I feel as though it is very important to keep in mind that some older people may be in their 90’s but will not mentally feel that way. I think back to a resident at the nursing home I work at who is 102, still walking around and tells me every day that she does not feel 102 and that she still feels younger. This is important because it may have an impact on their mental health, they may feel trapped at times. Having empathy for this population and listening to their concerns and how they are feeling is very important. I do not feel that conversations regarding mental health are had enough with the older populations especially in nursing homes and it may improve health outcomes if those topics are discussed.

            Until this class, I did not realize the effects that medication could have on an older adult. This could be common since they are on so many medications. The polypharmacy presentation really opened my eyes and made me realize that medications should be looked into with all older adults and their health care providers should be more aware of everything they are taking, even over the counter meds. I will always keep that in mind when caring for the older population as well as developing rapport, so they feel comfortable having conversations regarding their mental health.