Conceptualization of Perceived Enactment of Autonomy in the Elderly

Abstract

The eudaemonistic model of health is congruent with nursing's primary aim of practice and nursing's ethical imperative to support client autonomy. Although autonomy has been linked to holistic health, the definition of autonomy has been imprecise. This is especially problematic when working with the elderly. For clarification, a concept analysis of autonomy was completed. This led to further refinement and development of a new concept, perceived enactment of autonomy. This definition represents the subjective perceptions of the ability to act autonomously. Interventions derived from the nursing theory, Modeling and Role-Modeling (Erickson et al., 1983/1988), and supportive of perceived enactment of autonomy and environments conducive to healing within the eudaemonistic health paradigm are proposed.

Perceived enactment of autonomy of nursing home residents: A German cross‐sectional study

“…However, the correlation between HPEAS D and BI is presumed to be related to self‐efficacy, as HPEAS D scores were strongly linked to self‐efficacy scores. Our findings support the assumption that interpersonal factors reflecting individuality and self‐direction as two of the defining attributes that characterize autonomy according to Hertz () may also influence PEA similarly to self‐efficacy. Individuality and self‐direction include having a sense of self and knowledge of one's needs as well as guiding or conducting one's own affairs to meet needs for both dependence and independence (Hertz, ).…”

Older people’s experiences of their free will in nursing homes

“…They describe how older people define own free will and their experiences of its actualisation, promoters and barriers in nursing homes. In this 11. Each domain of content was divided into more specific content areas.…”

Self‐determination of patients with rheumatoid arthritis: Model development during action research

“…In order to implement self‐determination, patients, nursing staff and nursing management culture are presumed to have met certain requirements. The patient is required to have adequate knowledge of different care options, 26 the power to make voluntary decisions, and no physical limitations and restrictions, as prescribed by law 27 . Freedom to decide one's own actions, 26 ability to carry out one's wishes 25 and power are also essential preconditions for self‐determination.…”