Developmental Psychology

o Activity Theory is the theory stressing how important physical activity is. o The Disengagement Theory is known as a controversial theory and typically says that people will disengage or withdraw from society as they get older • Kahn’s Model of Successful Aging o There is the promotion of physical wellbeing o There may be proper opportunities of social activities o There will be maintenance of cognitive abili\ 10.10 Work and Retirement Due to financial incentives, more individuals are retiring from their places of work. This can be a huge change for a lot of people. It has been known to be a difficult and stressful move for a lot of people. This is especially true if someone was forced into retirement. There are negative aspects of retiring, one being that one individual will have to adjust to a new role in life. Poverty potential is just one of the aspects of retiring. One third of older individuals who were considered elderly, lived below the poverty line. These statistics came from prior to the 20 th century. In more recent years there has been the development of Medicare and Social Security. These programs help those who are in the post-retirement populations. 10.11 Relationships and Intimacy • Marriage o Typically, adults who are considered elderly are usually satisfied with their relationships if they have been in long-lasting marriages o Statistics show that elderly individuals who are married will usually live longer, have happier and healthier lives • Widowhood o Male widows and female widows tend to be less happy, unhealthy and will develop illnesses o Spouses who lose their significant other, are at risk for dying the following year o Stress is one of the biggest issues that elderly people will face during widowhood • Friendships o It is very important that friendships are maintained during late adulthood o Friendships are vitally important for elderly adults who are not married, or who have lost their spouse. o Statistics show that elderly siblings will grow closer later in li 10.12 Conflicts and Concerns of Late Adulthood Health issues can plague older adults. Elder abuse is something else that a lot of elderly individuals face. Abusers can be anyone from nursing home employees, family members, or personal aids. Elder abuse is defined as the mistreatment of an elderly individual and may not be limited to just physical abuse. When older individuals can no longer take care of themselves, they may go into a long-term care facility. There is a danger of experiencing drug interactions, and there is the worry of an elderly person having the proper nutrition.

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