Exam #1: Psychology of Aging

Question 1

What percentage of adults older than 65 show significant memory decline & are unable to live independently?

Answer 1

15%

Question 2

What problems can accelerate memory loss?

Answer 2

• Sleep apnea
• HTN
• Depression
• Anxiety
• DM
• Hypothyroidism
• Medications
• Vitamin B12 deficiency

Question 3

What are the recognized positive aspects of old age?

Answer 3

• Increased wisdom
• Experience
• Expertise

Question 4

What are the four stages of psychological growth & development in the 2nd half of life?

Answer 4

1) Re-evaluation, exploration, & transition
2) Liberation, experimentation, & innovation
3) Recapitulation, resolution, & contribution
4) Continuation, reflection, and celebration

Question 5

Describe the characteristics of the re-evaluation, exploration, & transition phase?

Answer 5

Phase 1

• Early 40s & 50s
• Confront mortality for the first time
• Plans & actions shaped by sense of personal discovery
• Bilateral brain involvement

**Mid-life crisis

Question 6

Describe the characteristics of the liberation, experimentation, & innovation phase?

Answer 6

Phase 2

• Late 50 - 70’s
• “If not now, when?”
• Feel free to speak mind & act according to needs
• Retirement= try new things

*****Empty-nester

Question 7

Describe the characteristics of recapitulation, resolution, & contribution phase?

Answer 7

Phase 3

• Late 60-80s
• Motivated to share wisdom
• Desire to find meaning
• Attend to unfinished business

Question 8

Describe the characteristics of continuation, reflection, and celebration phase?

Answer 8

Phase 4

• Late 70’s - end of life
• Desire to restate & reaffirm major life themes
• Want to live well to the end

Question 9

What drugs can effect memory in the elderly?

Answer 9

Benadryl 
Lortadine 
Ativan 
Ambien 
Halicon
Paxil

Question 10

What is the difference between delirium & dementia?

Answer 10

Delirium= acute 
Dementia= chronic