Biosocial Development in Late Adulthood

Ageism

• Definition: Ageism is prejudice where people are judged solely based on their chronological age.
• Effects:
  • Destructive, can be especially harmful in late adulthood.
  • Can foster anxiety, morbidity, and mortality.
  • Stereotypes may appear harmless but can erode confidence.
  • Potential to become a self-fulfilling prophecy, leading to increased dependency, avoidance of social interaction, and decreased self-care.
  • Longevity may vary based on attitudes toward aging, influenced by cultural and geographical factors.

Changes in Late Adulthood

• Sleep: Circadian rhythms may diminish; older adults may wake early and feel sleepy during the day.
• Exercise:
  • Only about 35% of those over 65 meet exercise guidelines.
  • Barriers include fear of injury, lack of social support, and activities designed for younger individuals.
• Elderspeak: Condescending communication style towards older adults, similar to baby talk, which can be perceived as ageist.

Categories of Older Adults

• Young Old, Old Old, Oldest Old: Different phases of late adulthood.
  • Important to pause and understand the distinctions.

Microsystem Compensation

• Most older adults remain sexually active, contributing to improved relationships and intimacy.

Driving and Senses

• Driving:
  • Older adults may drive more cautiously, avoid night driving, or cease driving.
• Sensory Decline: All senses slow and become less sharp with age.
  • Vision: Issues like cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration are common; early diagnosis can help.
  • Hearing: Significant percentage over 65 experience difficulties; higher prevalence in men.

Primary and Secondary Aging

• Primary Aging: Universal and irreversible physical changes, such as:
  • Heart pumps slower, vascular network less flexible, lungs/kidneys less efficient, digestion slows, healing delays.
• Secondary Aging: Specific illnesses resulting from poor health habits, genetics, etc.
  • Flu: Flu can be more severe; annual immunization recommended.
  • Hypertension: Blood pressure may rise; physical activity can mitigate morbidity.
  • Bone Health: Increased fall risk due to porous bones and osteoporosis.

Theories of Aging

• Wear and Tear: Body wears out over time due to stress.
• Calorie Restriction: May extend lifespan by reducing stress.
• Genetic Clock: DNA regulates aging through hormonal changes and cellular repair.
  • Telomeres: Shorten with age; associated with aging process.
• Centenarians: Factors contributing to longevity include diet, activity, social connections, and relaxation.

Life Expectancy

• Maximum Life Expectancy: Approx. 122 years under ideal conditions.
• Average Life Expectancy: Influenced by genetic timetable, varies widely by nation due to cultural and geographical factors.

Conclusion

• Complete study guides and engage in discussion forums for further understanding.