Developmental Psychology
Lecture 20
12-6-00
Changes in Late Adulthood
Demographic
Physical
Social
Cognitive
Physical Changes
Appearances
Hair, skin, posture, fat, muscles
Teeth and bones
Senses
Cardiovascular
Respiratory
Immune system
Minimizing Effects of Primary Aging
Exercise
Diet
Personality & Self-concept
Coping Style
Control
Mindfulness
Work & Retirement
Historical changes
Gender differences
Work & Retirement
Early - before 65
On-time - social expectations
Late or never
Phases of Retirement
Preretirement - emotional preparation
Honeymoon - actualize fantasies/plans
Disenchantment - lessened satisfaction
Reorientation - search for realistic choices
Stability - successful adaptation
Termination - return to work or unable
Marriage & Family
Generally happy period
Mutual "developmental stake"
Negative impact greater on women
Divorce, widowhood
Bereavement
Initial shock, denial
Grieving, protest
Despair, depression
Recovery
cognitive acceptance
develop new roles, self-images
self-acceptance
Cognitive Changes
Slower and reduced functions may reflect diseases such as multi-infarct dementia or Alzheimer’s
Alzheimer’s Disease
Nerve fiber tangles and plaques
Reduced neurotransmitters
Loss of recall memory
Genetic basis
Factors Leading to Memory Problems
Neural/organic
Knowledge
Strategies
Metamemory
Affect & anxiety