In Scotland, it is estimated that approximately one million people have at least one long-term condition. As the population is on the increase due to people living longer, the prevalence of long-term conditions is projected to rise by 75% by the year 2031 (Audit Scotland, 2007:36). This case study will examine the complexities of caring for an elderly patient with a long-term condition and how it can impact on the individuals’ quality of life. Firstly, the author will use a life course framework to explore the person’s previous medical history, behaviours and psycho-social functions in relation to their present health to assist with assessment and person-centred care planning. Furthermore, the case study will discuss co-morbidity, polypharmacy and pharmacokinetics, examining challenges faced caring for the individual relating to their possible impact on care outcomes.
The case study will focus on providing care provisions for an eighty two year old female patient who had been diagnosed with Parkinson Disease approximately eight years previously. Parkinson’s had progressed to an advanced stage, and she had multiple co-morbidities including glaucoma, osteoporosis and vulvar cancer. The author will ensure the identity of the patient is not disclosed throughout the case study to ensure patient confidentiality is maintained in accordance with the NMC code of conduct.
The health and social care burden facing the Scottish Government, has placed ageing and health on the agenda as a priority (Scottish Government, 2008:1). Within the UK, Kuh (2007: 717) reports that it is unclear whether ageing and declines in health of cohorts who are presently middle age will differ from that of current older people. It is not known whether socioeconomic differences and altered expectations of life in advancing years are changing. With this in mind, there is growing evidence around the benefits of research using a life course approach to determine future health trends and disease...