Sociology of Aging Midterm Review

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Questions and Answers

What is one of the important issues older adults believe needs improvement?

  • Access to recreational facilities
  • Social media training
  • Availability of public transportation
  • Income security measures (correct)

What do older adults want in relation to where they live?

  • To age in a community that is close to family
  • To live in assisted living facilities
  • To age in a place of their choosing (correct)
  • To relocate frequently for better weather

What is a common perception of community by older adults?

  • A diversion from their daily lives
  • A necessary burden
  • An asset to support their aging
  • A challenge rather than an asset (correct)

How can ageism be countered according to older adults?

<p>By supporting politicians who favor seniors (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What must be made to improve healthcare for older adults?

<p>Key healthcare improvements (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is often considered a priority to prevent poverty among older adults?

<p>Enhancing caregiver support (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is true about biological aging according to older adults?

<p>It is universally experienced but varies among people (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is an expected way to promote positive aging?

<p>Encouraging community engagement and activity (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the approximate life expectancy in the late 1800s?

<p>60 years (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How much is the life expectancy expected to increase in the present compared to the late 1800s?

<p>60% (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key feature that distinguishes different generations?

<p>Age (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What age is the retirement age expected to be in the next few years?

<p>67 (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of the world's population is currently 65 years or older?

<p>10% (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the projected increase percentage of the elderly population by 2025?

<p>17% (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How many Canadians are currently 65 years or older?

<p>7 million (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a centenarian?

<p>A person aged 100 years (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How has the population of centenarians changed since 2000?

<p>Tripled (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common misconception regarding the aging population?

<p>They are a burden to society (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What impact does an increasing median age have on workforce productivity?

<p>Results in smaller workforce and slower productivity (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the average median age in Canada?

<p>41 years (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which generation is known for experiencing a swell in population during the Baby Boom?

<p>Baby Boomers (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is declining fertility often linked to?

<p>More women entering the workforce (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does demography study primarily focus on?

<p>How populations change over time (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the current retirement age mentioned in the content?

<p>65 (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a major cause of death prior to the industrial revolution?

<p>Acute infections (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of epidemiology as described?

<p>To study disease transmission and illness patterns (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is not a demographic transition mentioned?

<p>Population aging (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why do businesses in the private sector use demographic data?

<p>To shape their investments and products (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of diseases have become leading causes of death today?

<p>Chronic degenerative diseases (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does demography consider levels of population change?

<p>Considering fertility, mortality, and migration (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key aspect of gathering insights about citizens?

<p>Using demographic data (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What can change in the population prompt the government to adjust?

<p>Services and supports (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the term 'population implosion'?

<p>Decrease in population size (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does an epidemiological study primarily focus on?

<p>Patterns of health-related issues (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What relationship does demography investigate?

<p>Connections between fertility, mortality, and migration (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of population statistics can guide businesses?

<p>Demographic patterns (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the expected age range for retirement?

<p>60's-70's (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What key factor has contributed to older adults living longer?

<p>Decreased mortality rates (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which demographic group is referred to as the Baby Boom?

<p>Anyone born between 1946 and 1965 (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the Life Course Perspective emphasize?

<p>The significance of early life experiences on aging (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the fixed maximum age for a species referred to as?

<p>Lifespan (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Chronological aging can be defined as which of the following?

<p>The number of years since birth (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What factor is NOT a component of aging?

<p>Emotional (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do social stereotypes contribute to age discrimination?

<p>They exaggerate negative attributes associated with aging (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of ageism discriminates against older adults through societal systems?

<p>Systemic Ageism (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What has been a significant trend observed in fertility rates in Canada?

<p>They are below the replacement rate (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect does 'Agency' refer to in the context of aging?

<p>The ability of individuals to make decisions affecting their lives (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are fundamental factors that influence aging as per gerontological studies?

<p>Biological, psychological, and social factors (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What has contributed to the aging population in society?

<p>Decreased mortality and fertility rates (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic feature of Gerontology?

<p>It disregards interdisciplinary approaches. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does intersectionality refer to in the context of societal inequalities?

<p>Interactions among systems of inequality and power (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How are cultural factors significant in a society's treatment of older adults?

<p>They create norms and expectations around aging (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which historical period is characterized by the loss of status for older adults due to modernization?

<p>Post-Industrial Societies (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one major difference between literate and pre-literate societies regarding knowledge transmission?

<p>Literate societies implement education systems (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of a subculture in the context of societal impact?

<p>It experiences marginalization and discrimination (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What must be ensured when designing healthcare programs for an aging population?

<p>Programs should be equitable for all citizens regardless of background (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In which society were older adults considered valuable sources of knowledge?

<p>Hunter-gatherer societies (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does culture influence the status of older adults?

<p>Through internalized stereotypes about aging (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does census data play in understanding population needs?

<p>It informs governments about characteristics and issues of the population (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common misconception regarding older adults and healthcare needs?

<p>Older adults need more healthcare than middle-aged adults (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What factor is crucial for developing policies aimed at older populations?

<p>Understanding the complexities of aging across cultures (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What might be an effect of colonialism on indigenous populations regarding aging?

<p>Reconciliation efforts recognize the experiences of indigenous elders (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which research method focuses on understanding social phenomena at the individual level?

<p>Qualitative research (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What defines 'culture' in the context of shared meanings?

<p>Shared values, beliefs, norms, customs, and knowledge (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of research design collects data over time from the same subjects?

<p>Panel design (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT an effect related to aging processes?

<p>Nutritional effects (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of aging do qualitative research methods often struggle with?

<p>Analyzing individual experiences accurately (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should researchers avoid making generalizations about?

<p>Aging experiences in older adults (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factors can influence the decline experienced during aging?

<p>Cellular regeneration and lifestyle (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is commonly associated with cognitive decline in older adults?

<p>Slow and steady memory loss (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of intelligence is characterized by knowledge accumulation and likely to increase with age?

<p>Crystallized intelligence (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT considered an Instrumental Activity of Daily Living (IADL)?

<p>Toileting (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following can be compensated for using corrective devices?

<p>Sensory loss (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for reported difficulty performing daily life activities?

<p>Disability (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What physiological change is often linked to aging?

<p>Decrease in muscle tone (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is considered a challenge when conducting cross-sectional research?

<p>It does not allow differentiation between age, cohort, and period effects. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why might older adults experience increased hearing loss?

<p>Increased exposure to loud sounds in youth. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Being Recognized by Society

Older adults want to be recognized as active participants and contributors in society, not invisible or overlooked.

Age in Place

Older adults want the freedom to choose where and how they live as they age, and to have the right resources and support to do so.

Valued Members of Society

Older adults want to be seen as valuable assets to their communities, not burdens or challenges.

Income Security

Older adults advocate for improvements in financial security measures to ensure they have enough to live a comfortable life.

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Caregiver Support

Older adults want increased support for caregivers, who often provide vital assistance to aging family members.

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Healthcare Improvements

Older adults emphasize the need for key healthcare improvements to address the unique health needs of the aging population.

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Positive Aging

Promoting positive aging as a way to combat ageism and foster a more inclusive society.

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Age in Place Support

It's crucial to support people aging in a place of their choosing, which includes ensuring access to affordable housing, transportation, and community services.

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Life Expectancy

The number of years a person is likely to survive.

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Lifespan

The maximum age a species can live. It's fixed.

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Gerontology

The study of aging and its related issues in people.

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Agency

An individual's ability to make choices and take actions that shape their life course.

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Social Structure

The societal structures, like gender, race, and socioeconomic status, that shape life experiences and opportunities.

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Chronological Age

The chronological passage of time, measured in years.

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Biological Age

Changes in our physical bodies, such as muscle strength, bone density, and sensory systems.

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Psychological Age

Changes in our mental abilities, such as learning, memory, and creativity.

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Social Age

Changes in our social roles, relationships, and interactions with society.

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Age-Related Stereotypes

Oversimplified or exaggerated beliefs about a group of people based on their age.

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Ageism

Systemic discrimination against people solely because they are older.

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Life Course Perspective

The concept that our early life experiences can influence our later life experiences.

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Aging is not an Illness

The viewpoint that aging is a natural process, not an illness.

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Micro Analysis

A focus on studying how a person's childhood shapes their life as an older person.

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Macro Analysis

A focus on studying how historical events or generations have shaped the lives of older people.

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Cultural Variations in Aging

The concept that different societies have distinct beliefs, norms, and values related to aging, impacting how older adults are viewed and treated.

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Defining 'Old Age'

Understanding that perceptions of 'old age' vary based on cultural, social, and historical factors.

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Cultural Influence on Older Adults' Status

The influence of cultural factors on the status and roles of older adults within a specific society.

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Intersectionality

The interconnectedness of various systems of inequality, such as race, gender, and class, which can significantly impact an individual's life chances.

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Societal Transitions

The ongoing process of societal change, particularly related to the structure, organization, and values of a society over time.

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Aging Through Time

Examining aging in different historical periods by comparing societal values, roles, and attitudes towards older adults across time.

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Pre-Industrial Societies

The period before widespread industrialization, characterized by hunting and gathering or agrarian societies.

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Industrial Revolution

The period of societal and economic transformation marked by the rise of factories and mass production.

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Subcultures

Groups within a larger society that share distinct values, norms, and customs, often experiencing discrimination or marginalization.

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Unique Aging Issues in Subcultures

The specific challenges and needs of older adults within different subcultures, requiring tailored programs and policies.

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Census Data

The systematic collection and analysis of data on population characteristics, demographics, and social indicators.

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Equitable Healthcare

The process of ensuring that all citizens have equitable access to healthcare services, regardless of their background or identity.

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Reconciliation

The process of acknowledging, understanding, and actively addressing the historical injustices experienced by Indigenous peoples, particularly through the Residential School system.

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Postcolonial and Indigenous Theories

Theories that examine the enduring impact of colonialism on Indigenous communities and societies.

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Effective Programs for Older Adults

Programs and policies designed to address the specific needs of older adults, taking into account factors like cultural background, health status, and income levels.

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What is demographic data?

Demographic data is used to understand the changes happening within a population over time, such as births, deaths, and migrations. This information helps to inform policy decisions and shape services provided to citizens.

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What is Demography?

Demography is the study of how populations change over time, including factors like birth rates, death rates, and migration patterns.

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What are demographic transitions?

Demographic transitions refer to changes in population patterns that occur over time, often linked to economic development and social change.

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Define Population Explosion.

Population explosion refers to a rapid increase in population size, often linked to advancements in healthcare and technology.

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Define Population Implosion.

Population implosion refers to a decline in population size, often due to factors like decreasing birth rates and increasing life expectancy.

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Define Population Displosion.

Population displosion refers to a complex demographic trend where population growth slows down or stops, but the aging population still increases.

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What are Epidemiological Studies?

Epidemiological studies examine how diseases spread, who is affected, and why. This allows public health officials to identify patterns of illness and develop prevention strategies.

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What is Epidemiology?

Epidemiology is the study of how diseases affect populations, considering factors like causes, spread, and impact.

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What are Chronic Degenerative Diseases?

Chronic degenerative diseases, like cancer and heart disease, are becoming more common as leading causes of death, replacing acute infections.

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Who uses demographic data?

Government agencies and businesses utilize demographic data to make informed decisions regarding services, resources, and investments.

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Why is understanding demographic trends important?

Understanding demographic trends and associated impacts can help policymakers and organizations develop strategies to improve health outcomes and public welfare.

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How did the Industrial Revolution impact demographics?

The Industrial Revolution led to significant changes in population patterns, including increased life expectancy and urbanization.

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What were common causes of death in the late 1800s?

Influenza and tuberculosis, along with other acute infections, were common causes of death in the late 1800s, but have declined in recent decades due to advancements in healthcare.

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How can Businesses use Demography?

The study of demography helps businesses to understand consumer markets and make informed decisions about their products and services.

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What types of services are impacted by Demographics?

Demographic trends, such as aging populations, impact the demand for various services, including healthcare, social security, and retirement planning.

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Public Health Improvements Impact on Mortality

Improvements in public health, such as access to clean water, better hygiene practices, and more education, have significantly reduced deaths caused by infectious diseases.

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Increase in Life Expectancy

The average lifespan of people has dramatically increased since the late 1800s, with a significant rise in life expectancy.

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Demographic Data

Demographic data refers to information about the characteristics of a population, such as age, gender, and location, which helps us understand variations within a society.

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Analyzing Demographic Data

Analyzing demographic data allows us to understand variations in characteristics within and across age groups and generations, giving insights into societal trends and challenges.

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Generation

A generation is a group of people born within a certain timeframe, often sharing common life experiences and perspectives.

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Importance of Age in Social Organization

Age is a crucial factor in understanding social structures and dynamics, as it influences people's roles, experiences, and perspectives across generations.

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Ageist Narratives and Consequences

The increasing prevalence of ageist narratives frames older adults as a burden on society, leading to mistreatment, marginalization, and denial of their contributions.

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Ageing Population and Societal Impact

The rising number of older adults in a population is not necessarily a sign of societal collapse or crisis, as they often contribute valuable experience and knowledge.

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Global Aging Trend

The percentage of the world's population aged 65 and over is projected to increase significantly by 2025, highlighting the growing global aging trend.

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Variations in National Aging Rates

The rate of population aging varies across nations, depending on factors like fertility rates, lifespan, and migration patterns.

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Policy Differences for Young and Old Populations

Countries with younger populations face different priorities and challenges compared to countries with older populations, requiring distinct policy strategies.

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Learning from Older Countries

Countries with younger populations can learn from the experiences of older countries to prepare for the future challenges and opportunities of an aging population.

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Impacts of an Ageing Workforce

The increasing retirement age, along with a smaller pool of young workers entering the workforce, leads to a smaller workforce and potentially slower economic growth.

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Declining Fertility and the Workforce

A decline in fertility rates increases the number of women in the workforce, potentially providing a greater pool of skills and experience.

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Rising Retirement Age

The retirement age is expected to rise in the coming years, impacting individual financial planning and overall workforce dynamics.

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What is Gerontology?

The study of aging and its related issues in people.

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What is a Cohort?

A collection of individuals born around the same time who share similar experiences.

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What are Period Effects?

Unique societal events that affect the lives of all individuals regardless of age or birth cohort.

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What is Psychological Age?

Changes in our mental abilities, such as learning, memory, and creativity.

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What is Biological Age?

Changes in our physical bodies, such as muscle strength, bone density, and sensory systems.

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What is Social Age?

Changes in our social roles, relationships, and interactions with society.

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What is Agency?

The ability of individuals to make choices and take actions that shape their life course.

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What is Social Structure?

Societal structures like gender, race, and socioeconomic status that influence life experiences and opportunities.

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What are Age-Related Stereotypes?

Oversimplified or exaggerated beliefs about a group of people based on their age.

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What is Ageism?

Systemic discrimination against people solely because they are older.

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What is Memory?

The ability to retain and retrieve learned information over time.

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What is Intelligence?

A multi-dimensional concept that includes abilities like verbal comprehension, reasoning, problem-solving, and knowledge.

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What is Creativity?

The production of novel, high-quality work, often peaking in mid-life.

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What is Wisdom?

The knowledge and understanding of life that facilitates insights and judgment about complex situations.

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What is Personality?

Unique traits, emotions, moods, and coping strategies that make each individual distinct.

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Study Notes

Midterm Review

  • Older adults are people 65+
  • Retirement age is in the 60s-70s
  • Aging interacts differently with social institutions
  • Lifespan is now estimated at 120 years, with increased life expectancy
  • Life expectancy varies based on gender, location, education, and experiences
  • Jeanne Calment is the oldest person ever confirmed
  • Population aging due to decreased mortality and fertility rates
  • Improvements in medicine and sanitation led to higher life expectancy
  • Fertility rates are below replacement rate in some areas
  • Population growth from newcomers
  • Baby boomers were born between 1946 and 1965.
  • Factors influencing aging include biology, psychology, genetics, and society
  • Understanding age-related transitions from birth to death
  • Covid-19 influenced societal transitions
  • Individuals construct a life course by making choices

Agency

  • Personality and lifestyles shape social life and affect aging
  • Key components of aging: chronological, biological, psychological, and social
  • Chronological, defining legal age
  • Biological changes in muscles, bones, cardiovascular, and sensory systems
  • Psychological changes in learning, memory, and creativity
  • Social factors, changes in social roles and relationships
  • Age is a sign of high status in some cultures
  • Age is a sign of decline in other cultures
  • Age related stereotypes contribute to discrimination

Social Structure

  • Life experiences and opportunities are shaped by social structures
  • Aspects like gender, race, and socioeconomic status
  • How childhood shapes an older person's life is studied via micro analysis
  • Macro analysis examines the impacts of historical events on generations

Aging Issues

  • Aging is not an illness, but a natural process, and not a state requiring medical intervention
  • Older adults want to be recognized as active, valuable members in their communities
  • Issues like income security and caregiver support need improvement in society and policies
  • Ageism, discrimination against older people, is a problem in various aspects of society
  • Policies and programs must reflect older people's needs
  • Aging is not universally bad, people may have significant positive experiences in later life as well.

Epidemiology

  • Study of how diseases spread, who gets them, and why
  • Identify ways to prevent and control diseases as they relate to age groups, such as heart disease, cancer etc.
  • Life expectancy has increased by around 60% from 1800s to now.
  • Generations share experiences and characteristics, sometimes impacting their perceptions of what is 'old' or 'normal'.

Theories

  • Theories provide perspectives to understand social phenomena
  • Theoretical perspectives, like structural functionalism, interpretive, conflict, and contemporary help us understand aging from different lenses
  • Social exchange, postmodern, & social constructionism are other theories addressing aspects of aging
  • Deconstructionism is useful in analyzing how age biases have been influenced.

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