The Aging Experience Middle Adulthood Transitions: Critical changes that occur at all stages of life. (Example- Graduating high school, etc…) Generativity: A shifts of attention away from one self in the present to concern for future generations. Physical transitions Menopause: Is the stopping of ovulation & menstruation that results from hormone changes. ~During menopause women experience: *Night sweats *Hot flashes *Can not get pregnant

Mental & Emotional Transitions ~Question ones self: Have they met their goals? Have they made positive differences in others lives? Do they feel loved and valued? Social Transitions ~Adapt to death of loved ones ~Children growing up Empty Nest Syndrome: Feelings of despair or loneliness that accompany children’s leaving home and entering adulthood.

Late Adulthood ~Retirement from workplace Physical changes: ~Skin loss ~Organ functions slow down ~Immune system becomes less effective ~Many diseases occur: cancer, heart disease ~Alzheimers- mental deterioration ~Parkinsons- muscle function loss Emotional & Social Changes: Integrity: Feeling of wholeness and contentment. ~Achieve integrity by: *Keeping relationships *Committing to a cause (religion, family)

Growth of a Lifetime Adulthood Physical Maturity: State at which the physical body and all its organs are fully developed. Emotional Maturity: State at which the mental and emotional capabilities of an individual are fully developed. ~ Emotional is more important than physical. *Includes: independence, personal identity, and acceptance of self, strong values & goals ~Mature physically first.

Developmental Tasks- 4 Aspects: 1.Occupational Role- choosing career 1.Individual identity & Personal acceptance ~Self-actualization: develop ones’ capabilities to their fullest. (Example: Leaving home & work full-time) 1.Intimate Relationships ~Emotional Intimacy: Ability to experience a caring, loving relationship w/ another person w/ whom you can share your inner-most feelings. 4. Place in Society: (Ex: volunteer work, promote recycling) ~Three ways to determine fitting in society includes: 1.Political ideas 2.Religious views 3.Sense of community responsibility