Lifespan Development: The Elderly Flashcards
What happens to the brain in very old people?
The brain becomes lighter and smaller due to loss of neurons and White matter
What is the main cognitive change in the very old?
Memory decline
4 reasons why memory might decline/change?
Motivation to remember
Self confidence
Measure of retention used
Central nervous system slowing
What are the two types (and subtypes) of long term memory?
Procedural memory, declarative memory (episodic and semantic)
Define: procedural memory
The long term memory of knowing how to do something
Implicit skills don’t decrease with age
Define: declarative memory
The long term memory of specific facts or events
Define: episodic memory
The long term memory of personally experienced events
Relatively stable until middle age
Define: semantic memory
The long term memory of facts and textbook knowledge
Unaffected until age 90
What are 4 psychosocial changes in the very old?
How they perceive their earlier life - impacts psychological wellbeing
Decline in physical and cognitive abilities (including dementia)
Can cause loss of autonomy and dependence on others
Loneliness from friends dying
How old is very old?
85+ years
