We are considered to be in late adulthood from the time we reach our mid-sixties until death. This is the longest developmental stage across the lifespan, and a growing age group. By 2030, 1 in 6 people in the world will be aged 60 years or over (WHO, 2021).
What is a late adulthood?
Late adulthood spans the time when we reach our mid-sixties until death. This is the longest developmental stage across the lifespan.
What happens in late adulthood life stage?
In later adulthood, a variety of physiological changes may occur, including some degree of atrophy of the brain and a decrease in the rate of neural processes. The respiratory and circulatory systems are less efficient, and changes in the gastrointestinal tract may lead to increased constipation.
What is Erikson's theory of late adulthood?
According to Erikson and colleagues, older adults develop a comprehensive sense of wisdom by renewing earlier stages of development and developing mature forms of the psychological achievements they that they made throughout the life course (Erikson et al., 1986, pp.