Assessment Part 2

Ms. Jackson reported that she has faced many challenges in her life. Client reported that she lost a child at the age of 29. Ms. Jackson stated that it was one of the worst feelings in the world. Ms. Jackson also shared that she was involved in a car accident at the age of 38 in which she broke her leg and arm. Ms. Jackson discussed the time she was fired from her part time job at the age of 50. Ms. Jackson reported that she was diagnosed with cancer at the age of 58. Ms. Jackson reported that the hardest of all these events, the most tragic one was the passing of her husband. She stated that was the most recent and heart-breaking event.

Ms. Jackson, however, was eager to share her positive life experiences as well. Ms. Jackson reports she gave birth to her first son when she was 20. Ms. Jackson says this being a happy moment due to being surrounded by her husband and becoming a mother. Similarly, Ms. Jackson states Mother’s Day is always one of her happiest moments. Though Ms. Jackson family showers her with love daily, she says Mother’s Day is exceptional for her because her family compliments her on her positive contributions to the family, her family throws her parties and buys her beautiful plants to add to her collections. Furthermore, Ms. Jackson recently celebrated her 82nd birthday in which she believes this milestone is significant. She indicated “some people don’t get to make it to this age, so I’m happy that I’ve made it this far.”

When reviewing her life, Ms. Jackson said that she is satisfied with the life she has lived. Ms. Jackson stated that she has attempted to live the life that God would have her to lead. Ms. Jackson stated that hopes to still be alive within the next five to ten years. She reported that she believes that if she continues to eat healthy she will continue to live. Ms. Jackson stated that she is concerned that her health may fail, and she could possibly die. She stated that she hopes she does not end up in the nursing home. Ms. Jackson stated that she hopes not to lose her memory as she gets older. Client reported that she already has a will in place.

I really enjoyed interviewing Ms. Jackson. It gave me a better insight on older adults. It gave me a view into her life and the challenges she has faced over the years. She discussed with me her expectations and her concerns. It seems like she has made the best of her life and she has lived it according to her religious standards. She has had many thought-provoking moments in her life. However, the good moments have outweighed the bad moments. I learned that older adults were once young adults. I learned that older adults must be thought of and cared for by their love ones. However, older adults want to remain independent.