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Ego integrity, the coming together of all previous phases of the life cycle, is described by Erickson as the primary developmental task in old age.1 Several authors expand on Erickson's description listing additional developmental tasks which are more specific. Burnside2 outlines four developmental tasks in late life: relinquishing power and capacity, developing a self-transcending philosophy, leaving a legacy, and dying and teaching others how to die. Duvall3 and Murray and Zentner4 also describe developmental tasks of old age. Although varying in number and wording, the developmental tasks described by the authors above are similar in meaning and relate to the achievement of ego integrity.
The developmental task concept, while understood and used by health professionals, is not familiar to the elderly person, even though he has accomplished many of these tasks in his life and continues to face them daily. A search of the literature reveals no information related to teaching developmental tasks to clients. Since the achievement of ego integrity for the elderly person can be difficult in a society that considers the aged useless or burdensome, the nurse needs to examine ways in which to assist the elderly person achieve ego integrity.
It is the contention of the author that the elderly person should be aware that development does not cease as he ages. He should have an understanding not only of developmental tasks he has yet to achieve, but also of those with which he has already dealt. Such awareness would assist him in examining positive accomplishments in his life and work confidently toward the future, thus enhancing feelings of selfworth and contributing to ego integrity.
Utilizing the above ideas, the author developed a teaching program on developmental tasks for a group of elderly persons. The positive response of group participants indicated elderly persons have a need for such a teaching program. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to describe the teaching program and discuss the potential value such a program has for increasing ego integrity in elderly persons. Four aspects have been found to require careful consideration when presenting the program: selection of the group, content, method of presentation, and follow-up.
Selection of the Group
The content of the teaching program deals largely with abstract ideas and discussion at a...