Late Adulthood and Family Growth

Late Adulthood

• Late adulthood refers to the stage of life after age 65, where individuals can watch their family grow and pursue passions they couldn't during their busy early life.
• Susannah, at 80, is in late adulthood and has seen her kids, grandkids, and great-grandkids grow, which is a rare treat.

Life Expectancy vs. Life Span

• Life expectancy is the average number of years a person in a society is expected to live.
• Life expectancy is influenced by where and when you are born; for example, babies born in the US in 2014 had an average life expectancy of 79, while those in Sweden had an average life expectancy of 82.
• Life span, on the other hand, is the actual length of time an individual person lives.
• Susannah's life expectancy was around 60 when she was born, but her life span is at least 80 years.

Factors Influencing Life Span

• Genetics can influence up to 25% of life span and are out of an individual's control.
• Exercise and fitness play a significant role in increasing life span; Susannah stays active by walking and lifting weights.
• Reproduction factors, such as having fewer children at later ages, can also impact life span; Susannah had her first baby in her 20s, which may have contributed to her longer life.
• Diet is crucial, and eating a healthy, well-balanced diet can help extend life span; Susannah follows a healthy diet.
• The acronym "GERD" stands for Genetics, Exercise, Reproduction, and Diet, which are significant factors influencing life span.

Susannah, an 80-year-old, reflects on her life and family growth, experiencing the joy of meeting her great-grandchildren in late adulthood. This stage of life is typically marked by family growth and personal fulfillment.