title: The framework of systemic organization applied to older adults as family caregivers of persons with chronic illness and disability.
abstract: The Framework of Systemic Organization by Friedemann, according to which families as open systems strive for congruence, a dynamic state of equilibrium, is presented to offer a way to bridge the gap between grand and mid-range theory, between theory and practice. Theoretical tenets composed of system targets of stability, growth, control, and spirituality and the process dimensions of system maintenance and change, coherence, and individuation are suggested for nursing assessment for older adults, individuals, and families. Simple practice application examples of these tenets are delineated for older adult family caregivers of persons with chronic illness and disability within a family system context. Nurses who practice within the Framework of Systemic Organization can assist elders, as family caregivers, in a meaningful way to adjust to the realities of their situation.
authors.affiliation: Medical College of Ohio, School of Nursing, Toledo, USA.
authors.forename: L L
authors.initials: LL
authors.lastname: Pierce
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged / Q000523:psychology*; D017028:Caregivers; D002908:Chronic Disease / Q000451:nursing* / Q000523:psychology; D006233:Persons with Disabilities / Q000523:psychology*; D005192:Family Health; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D009742:Nursing Theory; D013598:Systems Theory