( ; ) Aging and Disability ( ; )

Gerontology (Social Gerontology) The scientific study of the processes and phenomena of aging The scientific study of the processes and phenomena of aging

Young Old – ages 65 – 74 Major concerns: Major concerns: –retirement –maintaining relationships –new opportunities –positive mental health

Middle Old – ages 75 – 84 Major concerns: Major concerns: –physical health –mental functioning –dependency –death issues

Old Old – ages 85+ Major concerns: Major concerns: –same as Middle Old

Ageism the belief that one age category is naturally superior to another the belief that one age category is naturally superior to another

“Graying of America” by % of our population will be 65+ by % of our population will be 65+ Because of: advances in healthcare, low birthrates since the 60’s, and all baby- boomers will be over 65 by then Because of: advances in healthcare, low birthrates since the 60’s, and all baby- boomers will be over 65 by then

Medicare gov’t sponsored health insurance plan for elderly and disabled Americans gov’t sponsored health insurance plan for elderly and disabled Americans

Medicaid health insurance plan for low-income individuals health insurance plan for low-income individuals

Disability 51 million Americans have disabilities (paralysis -> speech impairments) 51 million Americans have disabilities (paralysis -> speech impairments)

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) 1990 Addressed four main areas: employment, public services, public accommodations, and telecommunications Addressed four main areas: employment, public services, public accommodations, and telecommunications

Blue Zones (pg. 238) Common characteristics: Common characteristics: –Eat sensibly –Physical activity everyday –Sense of purpose –Strong sense of family or community