Physical Development In Middle Adulthood

Question 1

Middle adulthood

Answer 1

The process of ageing begins. (46-65 yrs)

Question 2

Signs of ageing

Answer 2

• greying hair
• loss of muscle tone, strength and stamina
• body shake may change with an increase or loss of weight and waistline
• men begin to lose hair
• women menopause begins
• loss of height
• loss of skin elasticity

Question 3

Definition of menopause

Answer 3

The ending of female fertility including cessation of menstruation and reduction in production of female sex hormones

Question 4

The roles of sex hormones in females

Answer 4

• oestrogen: super important in female sexuality and regulates ovulation
• progesterone: implantation of fertilised eggs in the uterus, maintenance of pregnancy and sexual health

Question 5

Symptoms of menopause in oestrogen terms

Answer 5

A reduction in oestrogen causes: the ovaries to stop production eggs and thinning and shrinkage of the vagina

Affects the hypothalamus in the brain which regulates temperature causing hit flushes and night sweats

Affects the health of hair, skin and nails

May cause mood swings as oestrogen religarte neurotransmitter that affect the mood

Question 6

Symptoms of menopause in terms of progesterone and oestrogen

Answer 6

Gradually stops menstruation

Affects the libido(desire for sex) causing vaginal dryness