Transitional trauma

Abstract

Ageing is a biological, progressive process experienced by mankind in all times. Although every individual experiences old age differently, this process involves gradual physical and cognitive deterioration. As the older person survives to more advanced age, the likelihood of dependency increases. Elderly persons like to age in place, yet sometimes due to their dependency and because their support system is not enough to ensure their independent living, they are constrained to seek residential care. This study evaluates the trauma experienced by the elderly upon admission in a long term residential setting. Changes of one's lifestyle which can be both positive and negative, often produce transitional stress and make demands on the coping skills of the elderly, rendering them more vulnerable. For the purpose of this research the author designed a structured questionnaire and personally interviewed thirty four persons. The findings of this survey show that the impact of relocation from one's own home to a communal home is that the elderly are negatively effected with the transition, and consequently they become disoriented and traumatised. ln conclusion, in light of these findings, this study presents recommendations as to how the impact of relocation can be mitigated through social work interventions.