Module 13: Adulthood Flashcards
1
Q
Early adulthood
A
- 20s and 30s
2
Q
Middle adulthood
A
- Up to 65
3
Q
Late adulthood
A
- Years after 65
4
Q
Physical changes in middle adulthood
A
- Physical strength less to do with age than with health and exercise habits
- Gradual decline in fertility for women
- Gradual decline in sperm count, testosterone level, and speed of erection and ejaculation for men
5
Q
Menopause
A
The time of natural cessation of menstruation; also refers to the biological changes a woman experiences as her ability to reproduce declines.
- Within a few years of age 50
6
Q
Physical changes in late adulthood
Sensory abilities, strength, and stamina
A
- Muscle strength, reaction time, stamina diminish
- Visual sharpness, distance perception, adaption to light-level changes diminishes
- Senses of smell, hearing, touch diminish
7
Q
Physical changes in late adulthood
Health
A
- Immune system weakens
- More susceptible to life-threatening illness
- Since there is a lifetime accumulation of antibodies, suffer fewer short-term illnesses like the common flu.
8
Q
Physical changes in late adulthood
The Aging Brain
A
- More time to react, solve perceptual puzzles, even remember names
- Brain region important to memory begin to atrophy during aging
- Late in life, some impulsiveness returns due to frontal lobes atrophy
9
Q
Social clock
A
The culturally preferred timing of social events such as marriage, parenthood, and retirement.
10
Q
What is the healthy adult?
A
According to Sigmund Freud, the healthy adult is one who can love and work.
