Adulthood and Aging

Stages of Adulthood Early Adulthood –20-39 Middle Adulthood –40-59 Late Adulthood –60-?

Aging A challenge in our culture –Media/advertising, Plastic Surgery, make- up, etc. Human Lifespan = approx. 110 Years

Problems—Mental Ability Senile Dementia: –Loss of mental faculties as a result of aging –Occurs in only 23% (only 3% at 70) Alzheimer’s Disease –The loss of chemical nerve cell transmitters and other damage to nerve transmission that result in mental deterioration. –Can disrupt speech, memory, personality and bodily control Other: –Depression, Alcoholism, Vitamin Deficiencies, Misuse of prescription drugs

Concerns Poor health –Can they afford healthcare costs? Social Isolation –Death of a spouse or close friends Loss of feeling meaningful in society –Negative attitudes toward the elderly –Institutionalization

Death Thanatology—the study of death Terminal illness –Greatest fears: Loss of mastery over oneself Separation from loved ones Gnawing fear of being replaced by another –Feels: Left alone in an unpredictable situation and frustrated because they cannot do a thing about it.

Stages of Dying Elisabeth Kubler-Ross Terminally ill people go through a series of stages as they approach death 1.Denial 2.Anger 3.Bargaining 4.Depression 5.Peaceful Acceptance