Self-transcendence in Alzheimer's disease: the application of theory to practice.
The middle-range nursing theory of self-transcendence may be applicable to individuals in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease. Full cognitive ability may not be necessary for the essential principles of this theory to be implemented. The theory can offer guidance to families and health care providers in attempting to facilitate a meaningful aging process. A case scenario of an elderly woman with Alzheimer's disease demonstrates how family and caregivers can initiate interventions based on the theoretical concepts.
Molloy College svitale@molloy.edu.
Susan Ann
SA
Vitale
Suffolk County Community College.
Cheryl M
CM
Shaffer
Health South.
Holly R
HR
Acosta Fenton
D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000544:Alzheimer Disease / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D057187:Independent Living / Q000523:psychology; D019122:Meditation / Q000379:methods* / Q000523:psychology; D009723:Nurse-Patient Relations; D029181:Spirituality
aging; caring, conceptual/theoretical descriptors/identifiers; dementia; group/population; nursing practice; older adults; self-transcendence; spiritual care; theory-based interventions