Research & Review: Journal of Geriatric Nursing and Health Sciences

Assessment of Psychological Well-Being among Older People in Selected Urban Community, Kanchipuram District

Sathiyapriya V — 2026-07-18

Aging is a natural, inevitable biological and psychological process that everyone undergoes. It involves complex changes in various biological, psychological, social, and even spiritual aspects that occur over time. Assessing psychological well-being in elderly individuals is crucial for understanding their mental health, quality of life, and overall functioning. With aging, individuals may experience various physical, social, and cognitive changes, which can influence their psychological well-being. Therefore, it's important to assess their emotional, psychological, and social well-being. In this context, a quantitative approach and descriptive design were used. The methodology of the present study was conducted in selected Semmenchery urban areas. The sample for this study consisted of 60 older people. The sample was chosen through the use of the purposive sampling approach. The tools used for the data collection included demographic standard questions to assess psychological well-being among older people in a selected urban community. Descriptive and inferential statistics are used together in data analysis. The Assessment of psychological well-being among older people showed that 4 (6.66%) of them had a high level of psychological wellbeing, 32 (53.33%) had a moderate level of psychological wellbeing and 24 (40%) had a low level of psychological wellbeing. This study shows that there was no significant association between psychological wellbeing and age, gender, marital status, living with a partner, types of family, occupation, education, and income.

Effectiveness of a Structured Meditation Program on Attitude Towards Ageing and Depression Among Institutionalised Older Adults: A One-Group Pre-Test–Post-Test Study

Selvaraj. P — 2026-05-19

Introduction: Ageing is often associated with psychological challenges such as negative attitudes toward ageing and depression, particularly among institutionalised older adults. These challenges can negatively influence the overall well-being and quality of life of older adults. Non-drug-based approaches such as meditation are now widely considered effective in promoting better mental health outcomes. However, limited evidence is available on their effectiveness in improving both attitude toward ageing and depression among elderly individuals in residential care settings.

Methods: A quantitative evaluative approach was used, employing a one-group pre-test–post-test pre-experimental design. Thirty institutionalised older adults were recruited through convenience sampling from a selected old age home in Salem, Tamil Nadu. Baseline data were collected using a demographic proforma, an investigator-developed attitude toward ageing scale, and the standardised Geriatric Depression Scale. A structured meditation intervention was implemented over a period of four weeks. After completion of the program, participants were reassessed using the same instruments. The collected data were examined using both descriptive and inferential statistical methods, including the paired ‘t’ test.

Results: The results showed a clear improvement in attitude toward ageing, as the mean score rose from 20.16 to 27.9. None of the participants had a favourable attitude at baseline, whereas 30% demonstrated a favourable attitude after the intervention. Depression levels also declined markedly, with the mean score reducing from 15.13 to 8.66. Following the intervention, 67% of the participants were classified as free from depression. The calculated paired ‘t’ values indicated statistically significant differences (p < 0.05).

Discussion: The study results indicate that meditation is an effective intervention in enhancing a positive attitude toward ageing and reducing depressive symptoms among institutionalised elderly. These findings are in line with earlier studies supporting meditation as a beneficial non-pharmacological approach in geriatric mental health care.

Home-Based Management of Diabetes Mellitus in Older Adults: A Community Case Report

Muthu Kumaran — 2026-06-25

This case report focuses on the home-based management of a 55-year-old male diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, residing in Narag village, Sirmaur district, Himachal Pradesh. The report highlights the importance of individualized nursing care, lifestyle modification, and community-based health education in improving patient outcomes. The patient presented with symptoms of increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and mild weight loss. Clinical assessment revealed elevated blood sugar levels and high blood pressure. Nursing interventions were focused on diet modification, adherence to prescribed medications, regular physical exercise, infection prevention, and continuous monitoring of blood glucose levels. The family was educated and involved in the management process to ensure sustainable behavioral change and compliance. After two weeks of home-based nursing care, the patient showed improvement in glycemic control and overall well-being. This case emphasizes the pivotal role of community health nurses in providing continuous, holistic, and preventive care to individuals with chronic illnesses at the community level.