What is the theme in Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen?

One of the most important themes of the plot that follows the elderly Jacob is independence and self worth. Jacob is in his nineties and beginning to feel the approach of death. However, this sense of mortality does not mean that Jacob no longer wishes to be treated like an adult. Jacob feels as though the nurses at the assisted-living center where he lives no longer look at him as a man with his own opinions. Jacob becomes angry when the nurses open his window blinds without asking or refuse him a diet other than mush, or when one particular nurse refuses to encourage Jacob use his walker. Jacob resents being treated like a child.