Developmental Psychology

o Vision loss is more related to genetics rather than age o If a person requires glasses prior to the age of 20, then they are probably nearsighted o Astigmatism is the termused to describe the lack of elasticity of the lens and will more than likely occur as a person ages. o Presbyopia is the term that is used for age-related changes o Glaucoma is defined as the increased pressure on the inside of the eye. This is more common for those who are of 40 years of age or older  There is an increased pressure that will squeeze the optic nerve, which could lead to blindness. This can be treated with medications o Cataracts is defined as the cloudy lenses which is considered to be not much as an issue since it can be corrected by having surgery • Body System Changes o Cardiovascular systems as well as the digestive system will continue to decline o The immune system will begin declining and will begin attacking itself. • Lifestyle and Nutrition Factors o Statistics show that 50% of deaths are contributed to lifestyle choices and not due to age o Statistics tell us that heart disease and cancer are considered to be the leading causes of death in the United States o Around the age of 40 Is when some individuals depend on alcohol. This is very common o Smoking cigarette’s is known for its contribution of developing disease and for death. Smoking usually contributes to lung cancer o Excessive fat is a major contributor to heart disease o Not eating or taking enough fiber increases the changes of colon cancer o In the United States, over 40% of individuals are overweight and considered obese o Getting exercise can help decrease the chance of serious health issues, and even helps enhance cognition • Variations in Health Behaviors Between Men and Women o Males have a higher mortality rate than women during middle adulthood o Males are at a greater risk to die of any cause o Males are also at great risk to die from heart disease o Women are known for having higher disease rates than men who are of the same age o Women are known for having higher disability rates o Cancer is known as being an equal risk for both males and females. The only exception is women are more at risk for reproductive cancers • Reproductive System in Women o Women usually begin going through menopause between the ages of 42 and 58. o Menopause is defined as the cessation of menstruation and where there is a drop of estrogen o Some women go through perimenopause . This happens before actual menopause o Climacteric is defined as the decrease in infertility that occurs with age o Female climacteric symptoms are usually shorter, there are more irregular periods, women go through hot flashes and cold sweats

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