Promoting the Autonomy and Well-Being of Older Adults in Informal Care in Canada: A Review of Self-Determination Theory
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.53819/81018102t4394Abstract
This review stems from an independent course as a PhD student in exploring knowledge on existing literature on the utilization of self-determination theory in informal care for older adults. Societal changes and trends in globalization is affecting informal caregiving the preferred form of care in Nigeria. Older adults who have reduced autonomy experience low quality of care and life. A secondary method of data collection was used to elicit information. Data relating to the use of self-determination in informal caregiving was sourced through databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, and Science Direct using combination of keywords such as self-determination, informal caregiving, and older adults. From the reviewed literature, themes that emerged include caregivers' motivation, relationship with caregivers, and need for autonomy as part of the underpinnings of self-determination theory amongst older adult in care. The three basic tenets of self-determination theory; competence, autonomy, and relatedness are evident in studies concerned with older adults who practice self-determination. Older adults who practice self-determination have high self-esteem and better chances of quality of life. There is usually less incidence of depression and hopelessness amongst older adults who are allowed to exercise their autonomy and improved quality of life. Caregivers who encourage autonomy reported effective and efficient care services and have a positive disposition towards providing care. Policy makers can provide structures that support healthy ageing and policies should recognize autonomy as a fundamental ethical principle and actively address paternalistic attitudes.
Keywords: Autonomy, informal care, self-determination, older adults
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