What comes to mind when you think “nursing home”? Not so good, right? Let’s change that. Let’s use what we learn from psychology to create exciting places for seniors to live. We’ve got the tools provided by Maslow’s Hierarchy and by Self Determination theory. Here’s one way we could revolutionize the “senior years”.
Motivation Theories
- Maslow’s Hierarchy: Physiological needs, Safety needs, Belongingness, Self-Esteem, Self-Actualization
- Self Determination theory: 3 key needs: Competence, Autonomy and Relatedness (acronym: CAR)
Michael
January 20, 2016Thanks for your comment Jennifer. I hope it becomes a reality too. My mother is in a very nice facility and they have activities for the residents to do like movies, trivia, crafts, etc., but all the residents want to get out and see – and be part of – the world. To feel like they’re still alive. I take my mother out as often as I can (to lunch or church), and the facility takes the residents on trips to libraries and museums, but it’s not the same as having the residents become “part of” the outside world. Let’s hope this changes.
Jennifer Mahoney
January 20, 2016I really love this mall idea. I enjoyed hearing all of your points on how it will help our older generation feel a sense of relatedness. Them being involved in this sort of atmosphere can really help them mentally, instead of being in a nursing home, feeling isolated and depressed, looking at the same things every single day. I absolutely love this idea so very much and I hope this becomes a reality someday soon.
Rebecca Robison
January 20, 2016It’s very kind of you to be so caring and thoughtful for the elderly. I completely agree that they need to be able to experience socializing with more than just others who are elderly. A mall is a great idea, as is the other respondent that mentioned a daycare or preschool. Thank you for taking the time to help put into practice ways to meet their needs that will allow them to live happier and more fulfilled lives.
Michael
January 20, 2016I like that idea Patrick. I agree now that I think of it that a mall can often be quiet while a school setting has some unique advantages. The older folks could read to the kids for example. I like it. Thanks for coming to the site to leave a comment.
Patrick B
January 20, 2016I really liked this podcast, enough to come to your website and leave a reply, which is atypical for me.
This topic of finding a way to engage and activate senior living is an interesting concept, one I recently gave some thought. Instead of a mall which could be active or not depending on the time of day and the shops involved, I thought a daycare and pre school would be a better option. It has all of the action, and ability to use the skills of our seniors, while also giving them a captive audience. I feel like this would provide them with a constant engagement if they were interested, or brief whirlwind of excitement. This would also engage a more community approach to society, something we have gotten away from, but we know is a big positive.