Before beginning this paper, this nurse thought of the many stereotypes or biases she holds toward elderly individuals. She assumes they are all hard of hearing, have vision loss, forget things, have problems with incontinence, are stuck in their ways, and are mobility impaired. When looking back, there are many individuals she takes care of on a daily basis that do not meet any of her criteria that are thriving in society at the age of 95. Research and knowledge can have a considerable impact on how one views a vulnerable population. Often, stereotypes and biases are due to lack of knowledge and understanding of a certain population. Once an individual has a full understanding, biases and stereotypes disappear. This is why research is so important for nurses. By researching underserved populations and developing ways to help these populations, personal biases will be lessened or disappear. This is what has happened for this nurse. By researching the elderly, health issues they face, stereotypes they must overcome, and meeting these individuals in this patient population, she has nurse’s seen her biases and stereotypes lessening. Understanding is the key to helping vulnerable and underserved populations. Conclusion Older adults face many challenges in the healthcare system. Not only does this population require more healthcare resources, but often have a harder time receiving these services. biases toward the older adult do not help this population in their fight for equal quality Society’s of life. Through knowledge, research, and social and public policies, this vulnerable population can witness an increase in the quality of healthcare they receive and deserve. References
Before beginning this paper, this nurse thought of the many stereotypes or biases she holds toward elderly individuals. She assumes they are all hard of hearing, have vision loss, forget things, have problems with incontinence, are stuck in their ways, and are mobility impaired. When looking back, there are many individuals she takes care of on a daily basis that do not meet any of her criteria that are thriving in society at the age of 95. Research and knowledge can have a considerable impact on how one views a vulnerable population. Often, stereotypes and biases are due to lack of knowledge and understanding of a certain population. Once an individual has a full understanding, biases and stereotypes disappear. This is why research is so important for nurses. By researching underserved populations and developing ways to help these populations, personal biases will be lessened or disappear. This is what has happened for this nurse. By researching the elderly, health issues they face, stereotypes they must overcome, and meeting these individuals in this nurse’s patient population, she has seen her biases and stereotypes lessening. Understanding is the key to helping vulnerable and underserved populations. Conclusion Older adults face many challenges in the healthcare system. Not only does this population require more healthcare resources, but often have a harder time receiving these services. Society’s biases toward the older adult do not help this population in their fight for equal quality of life. Through knowledge, research, and social and public policies, this vulnerable population can witness an increase in the quality of healthcare they receive and deserve. References
health_disparities.docx