By 2060, according to the US Census, the number of adults aged 65 years or older will total about 98 million, or one-quarter of the population. The aging adult may need to manage such milestones as menopause , empty nest, retirement, not to mention being the sandwich generation that cares for parents and children.
What Are the Signs of Normal Aging
As far as evolution is concerned, we are here to reproduce, and our bodies must be fit and healthy in our younger years for such childbearing. In advanced years, after reproduction, the negative effect of our genes becomes more apparent, as there is no evolutionary benefit in prolonging our lifespans.
But modern medicine has changed this greatly, the lifespan has increased and we’re seeing more age-related health problems as a result; the decline is seen in everything from cognitive function to weakened teeth.
For more on how the body changes and living a longer healthier life, visit The Biology of Aging and Healthy Aging .
It is quite normal to experience forgetfulness, a diminished attention span, mild memory loss, some confusion, impaired judgment, and difficulty in learning new things like mastering a smartphone. These cognitive signs can appear after age 60, and more often after age 70.
What to Know About Aging Throughout the Lifespan
Aging comes with a host of questions spanning from cognition , health, and hormones, to career changes, family milestones, and mortality. Psychological insights can help people explore and address those key questions.
Psychologists have long cared about aging and mental health, and the American Psychological Association has had a division focused on Adult Development and Aging since the 1940s. However, it was not until the 2010s that geropsychology became recognized as a distinct area of inquiry by the American Board of Professional Psychology, with its own standards for board certification.
For more on geropsychology and caregiving , visit Caring for Aging Loved Ones .
Geropsychology is a specialty that focuses on understanding, treating, and improving the mental health of older adults. To do this, health professionals work with families and caregivers. They consult within different systems of care, such as skilled nursing or assisted living facilities, engage in advocacy for the needs of older adults, and have a role collaborating with other health care professionals and social service agencies.
Explore More About How Do We Age?
For a comprehensive understanding of how do we age?, read our complete guide: