Lifespan Developmental Psychology Study Guide

50 flashcards covering key concepts in Lifespan Developmental Psychology related to physical and cognitive development in late adulthood and dealing with death and bereavement.

What is ageism?

Prejudice or discrimination based on age.

What is primary aging?

A gradual, inevitable process of aging.

What is secondary aging?

Aging that results from disease, abuse, and disuse.

What is life expectancy?

Statistical likelihood of length of life, based on age and health status.

What does longevity refer to?

The actual length of life.

What is life span?

The longest period that members of a species can live.

How do gender and racial differences affect life expectancy?

Women typically live longer than men, and whites live longer than blacks.

What are genetic-programming theories of aging?

Theories suggesting that aging is programmed through genetic processes.

What is the Hayflick Limit?

The estimated biological limit of humans at 110 years.

How can metabolism influence life span?

Limited caloric intake may extend life span.

What happens to the aging brain?

The brain loses weight over time, primarily due to shrinking neuron size and loss of axons, dendrites, and synapses.

What visual impairments are common in older adults?

Cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, and glaucoma.

What percentage of older people experience trouble seeing?

80% of older people have trouble seeing.

What are common chronic conditions in late adulthood?

Heart disease, cancer, stroke, and lower respiratory disease.

What is dementia?

Physiologically-caused cognitive and behavioral decline.

What are the main causes of dementia?

Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, and Multi-Infarct Dementia.

What cognitive abilities decline with age?

Abilities needed for complex new skills and the ability to switch focus.

What can improve cognitive performance in older adults?

Cognitive performance can improve with practice and is related to use.

What memory changes occur in late adulthood?

Older adults are less efficient at encoding new information and have trouble with retrieval.

What is Erikson's final stage of psychosocial development in late adulthood?

Ego integrity vs. despair.

What is the focus of coping strategies in older adults?

Adaptive behavior that reduces stress from harmful or challenging conditions.

What part does spirituality play in well-being during late adulthood?

Religion and spirituality are positively related to general well-being and health.

What are the three components of successful aging?

Avoidance of disease, maintenance of physical/cognitive function, and active social engagement.

What is the continuity theory?

A theory that emphasizes the need to maintain a connection between past and present.

What impact does productive activity have on aging?

It plays a significant role in successful aging, leading to higher happiness and better health.

How does retirement affect older adults?

Retirement is associated with increased satisfaction but can also lead to depression.

What is the social convoy theory?

A theory that identifies helpful social-network members.

How do marital statuses affect older adults' health?

Married people are generally healthier and live longer than unmarried people.

What is terminal decline?

A decline in cognitive abilities shortly before death.

What are the five stages of grief according to Kϋbler-Ross?

Denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance.

What is bereavement?

The process of adjusting to the loss of someone close.

What is the classic grief work model?

It includes stages like shock, preoccupation with memories, and resolution.

What are practical issues related to euthanasia?

It includes active euthanasia, passive euthanasia, and assisted suicide.

What do advance directives represent?

Instructions about discontinuing medical care.

What methods can be used for life review?

Writing an autobiography, constructing family trees, and revisiting childhood locations.

What cognitive abilities do older adults typically report changes in?

They report more perceived change in memory, less capacity, and less control.

What is the socio-emotional selectivity theory?

Older adults spend time with people who meet their emotional needs.

What is chronic grief?

When a mourner remains distressed for a long time after a loss.

What is the significance of being married in late adulthood?

Long-term marriages are often reported as satisfying and can improve overall well-being.

What lifestyle influences can enhance health in late adulthood?

Physical activity, a healthy diet, and regular health exams.

What happens to the perception of death in older adults?

They may experience fear, denial, or acceptance.

What are the common patterns of grieving reflected in myths?

Not all people experience depression or need to 'work through' a loss.