Late Adulthood

Late Adulthood Introduction

65 years and up.

Called “elderly,” “senior citizen,” “golden ager,” and “retired citizen.”

Receives much attention because people are living longer. \n

Late Adulthood Physical Development

On the decline with all body systems affected.

Skin becomes dry, wrinkled, and thinner.

Brown or yellow spots (called age spots) appear

Hair becomes thin and loses its luster or shine

Bones become more brittle and porous and are more likely to fracture or break

Cartilage between the vertebrae thins and can lead to stooping posture.

Muscles lose tone and strength, which can lead to fatigue or poor coordination.

Nervous system declines:

Hearing loss

Decreased visual acuity

Less tolerance for temperatures that are too hot/cold

Memory loss can occur and reasoning ability can diminish.

Heart is less efficient/circulation decreases.

Kidney and bladder are less efficient

Breathing capacity decreases and causes SOB

Important to note that these changes usually occur slowly over a long period of time.

Many individuals do not show physical changes of aging until their seventies or even eighties. \n

Late Adulthood Mental Development

Varies among individuals

People who remain mentally active and are willing to learn new things show fewer signs of decreased mental ability.

Some 90 yr olds remain alert and well oriented, and others show decreased mental capacities at a much earlier age.

Short-term memory is usually first to decline.

Clearly remember events that occurred 20 years ago

Don’t remember yesterday’s events

Alzheimer’s disease:

Irreversible loss of memory

Deterioration of intellectual functions

Speech and gait disturbances

Disorientation

Arteriosclerosis:

Thickening and hardening of walls of arteries

Can also decrease the blood supply to the brain.

Causes a decrease in mental abilities.

Varies among individuals in this age group

Some cope well with the stress presented by aging and remain happy and able to enjoy life.

Others become lonely, frustrated, withdrawn, and depressed. \n

Emotional adjustment is necessary throughout this stage:

Retirement

Death of a spouse and friends

Physical disabilities

Financial problems

Loss of independence

Knowledge that life must end

Late Adulthood Social Development

Retirement

Can lead to a loss of self-esteem, especially if work is strongly associated with self-identity.

Less contact with co-workers

More limited circle of friends usually occurs.

Many individuals engage in other activities and continue to make new social contacts

Others limit their social relationships

Changes in social relationships:

Death of spouse and friends

Moves to a new environment

Development of new social contacts important:

Senior centers, golden age groups, churches, and many other organizations available.

Help provide the elderly with the opportunity to find another social role. \n

Needs

Same as those of all ages

Sense of belonging

Self esteem

Financial security

Social acceptance and love \n