Notes on Social and Emotional Development in Late Adulthood

Erickson's Stage of Ego Integrity vs. Despair

Key Concept: Acceptance of life's finitude and finding contentment.
Ego Integrity:
- Feeling complete and satisfied with life.
- Good relationships and closure on conflicts.
- Seeing life in a larger context, possibly leaving a legacy or having spiritual beliefs.
Despair:
- Regret, bitterness, and feelings of missed opportunities.
- Unresolved relationship issues.
- Jealousy and contempt towards younger generations.

Typical Age: 65 in the U.S. for full retirement benefits.
Increased Lifespan: More time in retirement, varying experiences.
- Fulfillment: Through hobbies, relationships, and volunteering.
- Depression: Due to loss of work identity, feeling bored.
Transition: Gradual retirement becoming common vs. sudden cessation.
- Financial necessity or desire to maintain work identity.
Volunteering: Significant involvement by elderly in various community services.
Financial Planning: Importance of early saving for retirement (e.g., 401k plans).

Range: From high autonomy to low autonomy.
- In-home Care: Preferred by most, but can be expensive.
- Residential Communities: Elderly neighborhoods with some assistance.
- Assisted Living: Apartment-style living with assistance.
- Nursing Homes: Least autonomy, shared spaces, scheduled activities.
State Variations: Different support and policies across states.

Therapeutic Use: Psilocybin for coping with terminal illness.
Ego Dissolution: Feeling connected to a larger system, helping to face death.
Research: Evidence supporting its use for depression and terminal illness stress.

Retirement as 'Third Age': Life stage after adolescence to working years.
Financial Concerns: Uncertainty of social security and the importance of personal savings.
Elderly Rights and Autonomy: Varies by cognitive ability and state regulations, with potential power of attorney involvement.