DevPsych - Ch 18

What is "successful aging" in late adulthood?

Includes social engagement, continuity of self, and maintaining well-being despite challenges.

How does self-concept change in late adulthood?

It becomes more multifaceted, complex, and stable.

What happens to self-esteem in late adulthood?

Global self-esteem tends to decline slightly, but most maintain a positive self-view.

How do older adults typically manage positive and negative self-aspects?

They compartmentalize them rather than integrate them.

What is subjective age?

The age a person feels, which is often younger than their chronological age.

On average, how much younger do older adults feel?

About 20 years younger.

Why might older adults report a younger subjective age?

To avoid negative aging stereotypes and maintain identity.

What is linked to a younger subjective age?

Better physical health, better cognition, and larger gray matter volume.

What can make an older adult feel older temporarily?

Difficult cognitive tasks (like working memory) or body pain.

What is reminiscence?

Recalling past events; serves functions like teaching, problem-solving, and maintaining continuity.

What type of reminiscence predicts better health?

Positive reminiscence.

What is life review (Butler, 1963)?

Reflecting on one's past to find meaning and integrate life experiences.

What is ego integrity (Erikson)?

A sense that life is meaningful and coherent, with acceptance of one's life path.

What is despair (Erikson)?

Bitterness, regret, and seeing life as meaningless.

What is required to achieve ego integrity?

Cognitive maturity, social support, generativity, and positive family relationships.

Which Big 5 personality trait tends to increase in late adulthood?

Agreeableness.

Which Big 5 traits tend to decline after the 50s?

Extraversion and Openness.

When does Conscientiousness peak?

Between ages 50–70, then declines.

What is the trend for Neuroticism in late adulthood?

It declines.

How is Conscientiousness linked to aging?

It predicts longevity and better cognition.

How is Neuroticism linked to aging?

It predicts worse cognition, frailty, and decline.

Is sexuality important in late adulthood?

Yes; many remain sexually active and interested into their 80s/90s.

What changes in sexuality are common for older women?

Vaginal dryness.

What changes in sexuality are common for older men?

Slower erections.

What barriers affect sexuality in late adulthood?

Health issues, medication, lack of partner, and societal attitudes.

How does religiosity change with age?

It increases in importance and participation.

Why is religiosity especially important for marginalized older adults?

It provides social support, community, and coping, and is embedded in cultural support systems.

How do friendships change in late adulthood?

They become more important, fulfilling, and focused on emotional support and shared activities.

What is typical about social networks in late adulthood?

They are smaller but closer and more meaningful.

How do sibling relationships change in late adulthood?

The bond strengthens due to shared history; siblings provide emotional and tangible support.

What is marital satisfaction like in late adulthood?

It increases, with less conflict and more positivity, humor, and respect.

What is "positive sentiment override"?

Viewing one's spouse in a positive light; predicts marital satisfaction.

What is "gray divorce"?

Divorce among older adults; rising but still less common than in younger groups.

What is a common reason for gray divorce?

Poor communication and emotional detachment.

What is a challenge for men after gray divorce?

Loss of social support and financial security.

How common is cohabitation among older adults?

Increasing; about 1/4 of all cohabitors are older adults.

How do relationships with adult children shift?

From parent-to-child support to child-to-parent support.

What is the most common type of support between older adults and adult children?

Emotional support.

How common is elder maltreatment?

About 1 in 10 older adults experience abuse.

Who are common perpetrators of elder abuse?

Often caregivers (spouses or children) under stress.

What is the Disengagement Theory?

An outdated theory suggesting older adults naturally withdraw from society.

What is the Activity Theory?

Staying socially active promotes well-being in late adulthood.

What is the Continuity Theory?

Maintaining consistency in self and roles while adapting to change.

What is Socioemotional Selectivity Theory (Carstensen)?

As time horizons shrink, older adults prioritize emotionally meaningful relationships and prune peripheral ties.

What do most older adults prefer regarding living arrangements?

Aging in place (staying in their own home).

What are benefits of aging in place?

Autonomy, continuity, and community ties.

What are challenges of aging in place?

Isolation, safety concerns, and managing health declines.

What is a key drawback of nursing homes?

Loss of autonomy, which can lead to depression and loneliness.

What influences the decision to retire?

Health, finances, job conditions, and discrimination.

Who tends to retire earlier due to health/finances?

Black and Hispanic adults.

What is Social Security's role for older adults?

It's critical but often insufficient, especially for women and people of color.

What are the phases of retirement adjustment?

Honeymoon → disenchantment → reorientation → stability.

What predicts positive adjustment to retirement?

Voluntary retirement, sense of control, good health, finances, social support, and engagement in leisure/volunteer work.

What is better than abrupt retirement?

Gradual retirement.

How do job characteristics affect retirement adjustment?

Stressful jobs may bring relief; satisfying jobs may make adjustment harder.

What helps promote well-being in retirement?

Continuity in roles (e.g., through volunteering).