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Chapter 12
Middle Adulthood
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Objectives
Define middle adulthood.
List the physiological changes that occur during middle adulthood.
Define the major developmental tasks and challenges of middle adulthood.
State the complexities of the menopausal experience in women.
Discuss the male climacteric.
Define midlife crisis.
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Objectives (cont.)
Discuss sexuality in the middle-adulthood phase of the life cycle.
List preventative health-care measures appropriate for middle adulthood.
Define the "sandwich generation."
Describe the benefits of regular exercise during middle adulthood.
List teaching strategies that may be effective for the patient in the middle-adult phase of the life cycle.
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Key Terms
climacteric
“empty nest” syndrome
generativity
hot flashes
identity accommodation
menopause
middle adulthood
midlife crisis
reproductive health
sandwich generation
sexuality
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Definition
The period of development after the early adult years but before retirement
Between 40 and 60 years of age
Some theorists suggest that developmental changes are gradual and progressive, but others express the concept of passing through distinct stages
See Lifespan Considerations
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Developmental Tasks
Generativity
Stagnation
Maintaining a positive self-image is important
Identity accommodation
Effect of the spouse or significant other on continued development and life stability is important
See Figure 12-1.
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Challenges
Maintaining optimum cognitive functioning is necessary
Adjusting to changes in relationships
Continue their education
Marital separation, divorce, major illness or injury, loss of income, or unplanned pregnancy
“Empty nest” syndrome
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8. Critical Thinking Question 1
What impact does the failure to develop a sense of intimacy during young adulthood have on the middle-aged adult experiencing the empty nest syndrome?
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Midlife Crisis
May grieve lost youth and missed opportunities
May start to engage in behaviors that are atypical for their character
See Figure 12-2.
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10. The Sandwich Generation
Must handle increased financial and emotional responsibilities related to their children and their older, and possibly dependent, parents
A fulfilling marriage will help validate positive self-esteem
Divorce, separation, conflicts with adult children or aging parents may have negative impact on psychological functioning
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11. Critical Thinking Question 2
Many couples are starting their families later in life and advances in health care have contributed to greater longevity in late adulthood. How do these factors affect middle-aged adult families? What interventions could assist these families to cope?
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Sexuality
Often focused on career goals and financial stability, little time or energy may be set aside to fulfill sexual needs
Options for sexual lifestyles for the single person
Gradual hormonal changes
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Reproductive Health
Climacteric
Complex interactions exist among sex hormones, physiology, and physical and emotional well-being
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Women's Health
Menopause
Hot flashes
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapy
See Boxes 12-1 and 12-2.
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15. Critical Thinking Question 3
Recent medical advances have prolonged the reproductive capabilities of some women. Given your knowledge of developmental tasks of family, parents, and middle adulthood, discuss the potential impact of having a child at age 40. Age 50 or older?
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Men's Health
Sexual concerns
Male climacteric involves a gradual decline in the blood concentration of testosterone
Testosterone-replacement therapy
See Box 12-2.
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17. Critical Thinking Question 4
Women’s health has become a recognized nursing and medical specialty. With increasing focus on men’s health concerns, what educational programs for health care providers and for men themselves could or should be implemented to encourage men to seek earlier medical and preventive care?
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Physical Activity
Maintain fitness and avoid disease
Social outlet for an otherwise isolated person
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Teaching Techniques
Stress can inhibit or motivate learning
Incorporate the independence and competencies of the adult learner
Provide information that coincides with the concerns and stresses
See Table 12-1 and Figure 12-3.
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