Activity Theory

Question 1

Developed by who

Answer 1

Robert Havighurst

Question 2

What did he say

Answer 2

- people who cope with ageing best are those who stay active and maintain their network of social relationships
- assumed that social and psychological needs of individuals remain the same during later adulthood
- the more active person is in later adulthood, the more satisfied they will feel with their life
- theory recognised that later adulthood often involved changes in health but older peoples needs can be met by taking on new roles

Question 3

Criticisms

Answer 3

- over estimates the ability of the elderly to maintain their level of activity
- some older people can remain active others cannot