Respond to discussions 502

DB4

COLLAPSE

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The cognitive and physical limitations of both John and Lydia are a concern as they both seem to be in decline. They have what seems like very little social support from their families. These two have been living in squalid conditions and seem to be living in the here and now. It is clear that they know they need some kind of assistance, more than what their family is willing to provide. It seems as if they are relying on crystalized intelligence and preforming tasks using previous knowledge to help them survive (Broderick & Blewitt, 2015). They both seem to know what their limitations are physically but have no alternatives they wish to pursue. Their fluid intelligence is in rapid decline as their cognitive reasoning is questionable. There are in the final stage of the family life cycle with their adult children grown and out on their own and unable or unwilling to help care for their parents. In Erikson’s personality types, both John and Lydia would be in the integrity versus despair stage however because of their declining cognitive abilities they may not think in terms of weather they were happy or regretful of the life they once lived.  There are several bits of information that would be beneficial in evaluating John and Lydia’s situation. Knowing if there is extended family who may be willing to step in to help care for both John and Lydia would be helpful as well as seeing if their estranged son would be willing to return to his family and help in a time of need. There are several options for the couple that should be considered. I believe it is important that guardianship be awarded to either a family member willing and capable of caring for the couple or the state. I personally believe that guardianship of the couple be taken by the state as one son is estranged and the other incapable of caring for them and his wife. I also believe that the state should take guardianship so that they may get the best care without their son trying to preserve his inheritance.  The couple could be placed into a senior living community where they have their own accommodations that would be specialized to their physical limitations. In a senior living community, there would also be support staff present to make sure they are both cared for and not living in squalor. Another option would be to move them into a smaller house with proper accommodations and assisted living staff that would help with everyday tasks.  I would personally suggest that both John and Lydia be moved into a senior living community because their limitations will increase as they continue to age. A facility would be best suited to their changing needs and level of care.

 

Broderick, P. C., & Blewitt, P. (2015). The life span: Human development for helping professionals (4th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.

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