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Lifespan Approach (3)

Lifespan As A Useful Learning Tool

Since the lifespan approach also helps us to focus our attention towards specific events associated with a stage of growth and development, it is useful in that we can examine issues about health, illness, and relate these to the stage of growth and development from the bio-psycho-social perspective. It adds to the understanding of age-related needs, behaviours and practices, and rites of passage that the person goes through. Life opportunities influence the person's ability to achieve personal and social goals, and assume diverse roles and responsibilities. Thus, the lifespan approach can assist in exploring the age-related resources that are necessary for health. 

The lifespan approach is also useful when thinking about the structure, organisations and delivery of systems of health and social care services. For example, 'neonatal' units, Special Baby Care Units, Care of the Elderly, Children's Nursing, Adult Nursing.