Development in Old Age

What is aging ?

Different phases: third age ( active retirement ) and fourth age (frailty)

Changes: physical (body systems), cognitive (thinking), psychosocial (social rules).

Types of aging changes ?

Universal: menopause, slower reactions, reduced senses.

Probalistic: arthritis, dementia (doesn’t happen to everyone)

Longevity ?

Lifespan in Ireland has increased in recent years.

Healthy lifespan has reduced unfortunatly.

Aging affects society: older generation’s roles, economic dependency, intergenerational relationships.

Predictors for positive aging ?

• Harvard study shows that early child factors (physical exercise, emotional maturity) are positive predictors.

• Key factors of well-being: stable marriage, freedom from depression and emotional maturity.

• Alcoholism and poor childhood are negative predictors

Can aging be slowed ?

• Science of longevity: sleep, diet, exercise, mental activity, preventative medications

• Mental exercises (immersive games) and social engagement is linked to being helpful

• Blue Zones project: claim that community engagement promotes longevity

Aging and Dementia ?

• Dementia is not a disease but a symptom caused by brain degeneration (e.g. Alzheimer’s)

• The risk of dementia doubles every 5 years after 60

• Resilience to dementia: having a “functional zone” in the brain and cognition.

Final note

Stories from centenarians and their lessons claim that longevity comes from heredity, lifestyle and environment.