Lesson 9: Late Adulthood Flashcards
(80 cards)
What age range is considered late adulthood?
Late adulthood includes individuals aged 65 and older.
What is the “Graying of America”?
It refers to the increasing proportion of the U.S. population aged 65 and older, significantly impacting healthcare, housing, and social security.
By 2050, what proportion of Americans will be aged 65 or older?
Almost one in four Americans.
How has life expectancy changed for those turning 65?
In 2015, someone turning 65 could expect to live 19 more years, 5.5 years longer than in 1950.
Which countries have the highest proportions of older adults?
Japan, Germany, and Italy.
What is the difference between lifespan and life expectancy?
Lifespan is the maximum age a species can reach, while life expectancy is the average age individuals of a population are expected to live.
What is the global life expectancy at birth as of 2015?
71.4 years.
Why do women tend to live longer than men?
Biological advantages, such as protective effects of estrogen, and behavioral factors like fewer risky behaviors.
What is Healthy Life Expectancy (HLE)?
The average number of years an individual is expected to live in good health.
What region has the lowest HLE globally?
The WHO African Region, at 52.3 years.
What are the three age categories in late adulthood?
Young-old (65-84), oldest-old (85-99), and centenarians (100+).
What defines the “young-old” category?
Adults aged 65-84, characterized by relative health, social engagement, and independence.
Who are the “oldest-old”?
Individuals aged 85 and older, often with more chronic illnesses and higher care needs.
How many centenarians were there worldwide in 2015?
Nearly half a million.
What is unique about centenarians’ health?
Many have delayed onset of chronic illnesses until their 90s or later.
What are programmed theories of aging?
Theories suggesting aging follows a biological timetable influenced by genetic expression.
What is the cellular clock theory?
It proposes that aging is due to cells’ inability to divide indefinitely, limited by telomere shortening.
How do free radicals contribute to aging?
By damaging cells and tissues through oxidative stress.
What does the immune system theory suggest about aging?
Aging is linked to a decline in the innate and adaptive immune systems, making the body more vulnerable to diseases.
How does hormonal stress theory explain aging?
Chronic stress and cortisol release damage the hypothalamus and lead to metabolic issues.
What happens to body composition as people age?
Lean tissue decreases, fat increases, and bones lose density.
How does vision change in late adulthood?
Common issues include cataracts, macular degeneration, and glaucoma.
What is sarcopenia?
The age-related loss of muscle mass and strength.
What causes cataracts?
A clumping of proteins in the lens of the eye, leading to clouding and reduced clarity.