Issues in Middle Adulthood Powerpoint Presentation

Issues in Middle Adulthood By Associate Professor Dr. Caryn Mei Hsien Chan 1 Middle adulthood Physical Cognitive Social Personality 2 Physical and Cognitive Development in Middle Adulthood...

Issues in Middle Adulthood By Associate Professor Dr. Caryn Mei Hsien Chan 1 Middle adulthood Physical Cognitive Social Personality 2 Physical and Cognitive Development in Middle Adulthood 3 1. Physical Transitions Height, weight, and bone density Height stabilization until around age 55 Gradual decline in height (loss in women average 2 inches, men 1 inch) Greater risk of height loss in women due to osteoporosis Body composition Increase in body fat, leading to "middle-age spread" Weight gain is especially notable as height stabilizes or declines 4 1. Physical Transitions Strength decline Gradual decrease in muscle strength, notably in back and leg muscles Average loss of around 10% of maximum strength by age 60 Psychological Impact Self-image tied to physical attributes may influence emotional reactions Societal pressures on appearance, particularly affecting women Perception of ageing and attractiveness differ between genders 5 2. The senses Vision changes Visual acuity decline: Begins around age 40 Presbyopia: Loss of near vision, necessitating reading glasses or bifocals Other declines: Depth perception, distance perception, reduced adaptability to darkness Disease impact: Glaucoma - potential cause of blindness, treatable if detected early 6 2. The senses Hearing changes Gradual decline: begins in middle adulthood Causes: age-related, environmental factors (e.G., Exposure to loud noises) Presbycusis: difficulty hearing high-frequency sounds, affecting 12% in mid-50s to mid-60s Gender differences: men more prone to hearing loss Effects on sound localization: difficulty identifying sound direction and origin 7 2. The senses Compensation for sensory changes Adaptation strategies: increasing volume, requesting people to speak louder, focusing on conversations Most people compensate: Able to adjust relatively easily to sensory losses 8 3. Reaction time Increase in reaction time Mild increase: around 20% from age 20 to 60 More noticeable in simple tasks: reacting to a loud noise, etc Less impact on complex tasks: driving a car, coordination of skills Causes of increase Nervous system processing: changes in nerve impulse processing speed Impact on driving: slight delay in emergency reactions 9 3. Reaction time Driving performance Fewer accidents: middle-aged drivers have fewer accidents than younger ones Reasons: carefulness, risk aversion, and increased expertise compensate for slower reaction time Role of practice and expertise Expertise compensates: Practice and experience counteract minor slowing of reaction time Practice makes perfect: Older drivers' experience improves their driving performance 10 3. Reaction time Slowing down the effects Impact of lifestyle choices: Active exercise programs can delay the effects of aging Benefits: Better health, improved muscle strength, endurance "Use it or lose it": Engagement in activities slows down the decline in reaction time 11 4. Sexuality Middle-aged women Menopause: marks the cessation of menstruation, typically around age 45 Physical changes: thinning of vaginal walls, vaginal shrinkage, potential discomfort during intercourse Symptoms: hot flashes, headaches, dizziness, heart palpitations Hormonal impact: decreased estrogen and progesterone production Treatment: hormone replacement therapy for symptom alleviation, but with risks Psychological impact: perception of symptoms influenced by attitudes and cultural backgrounds 12 4. Sexuality Middle-aged men Andropause or male climacteric: gradual changes in late middle age (50s) Physical changes: decline in testosterone production, potential erectile dysfunction Prostate enlargement: occurs in around 50% of men by age 80, leading to urination problems Treatment: medications like viagra, levitra, and cialis; testosterone replacement therapy Psychological impact: unclear association between physical changes and psychological symptoms 13 4. Sexuality Sexuality in middle age Frequency of sexual activity: declines with age but remains important for many Middle-aged women: liberation from fear of pregnancy after menopause Middle-aged men: longer time for achieving an erection and ejaculatory changes Cultural and ethnic variances: different experiences and perceptions of menopause across cultures Psychological impact: varies based on individual attitudes and expectations toward changes 14 5. Wellness and illness Overall health status Period of health: majority report no chronic health difficulties or activity limitations Health improvements: lower likelihood of infections, allergies, respiratory, digestive issues compared to younger adults Onset of common chronic diseases: arthritis type 2 diabetes hypertension 15 6. Intelligence in middle adulthood Complex changes in intelligence Traditional beliefs: intelligence peaks at 18, starts declining in mid- 20s Modern view: complex, multifaceted changes in intelligence across adulthood Challenges in assessing intelligence Cross-sectional studies: showed older subjects scored lower on iq tests potential bias due to cohort effects, education, and health disparities Longitudinal studies: indicated stable or increasing intelligence until mid-30s to 50s susceptible to practice effects, sample attrition bias 16 6. Intelligence in middle adulthood Fluid and crystallized intelligence Fluid intelligence: information processing, reasoning, memory; generally declines with age Crystallized intelligence: learned skills, knowledge; holds steady or improves Interconnected nature of both types of intelligence Specific changes in abilities Schaie's findings (1994): spatial orientation, inductive reasoning decline gradually from 25 onwards verbal ability stabilizes around 40; numeric ability peaks in mid-40s 17 6. Intelligence in middle adulthood Brain changes & cognitive shifts o Genetic changes in learning-related genes around age 40 o Brain functioning adapts, utilizes both hemispheres for tasks as age advances Competence vs. Cognitive decline o Timothy Salthouse's perspective:  discrepancy between measured intelligence and professional success  occupational success possibly reliant on specific skills not captured by traditional iq tests 18 7. The development of expertise Definition of expertise o Acquisition of skill or knowledge in a specific area o Gained through attention, practice, and experience Expertise development o Professional experience:  physicians diagnose better with experience in patient symptoms  other professions benefit from accumulated practice and exposure o Personal interest:  hobbies and interests, like cooking, lead to intuitive knowledge  enjoyment fosters expertise in specific areas 19 7. The development of expertise Characteristics of experts Experience vs. Rules: beginners follow rules strictly, while experts rely on intuition experts often bend rules based on extensive experience Automatic processing: experts process information automatically compared to novices Problem-solving abilities Better strategies: experts develop effective strategies to solve problems flexibility in approach due to varied experience 20 7. The development of expertise Factors affecting expertise development External influences: professional responsibilities, leisure time, education, income, and marital status Impact on expertise: varying degrees of opportunity and time for skill acquisition Importance in decision-making Preferred expertise: expertise valued for informed decision-making middle-aged individuals often seek experienced professionals 21 7. The development of expertise Contribution to society Influence and mentorship:  experts often serve as mentors, passing knowledge and skills  contribution to professions and communities Continued growth and learning Lifelong learning:  middle adulthood isn't a cap on expertise development  continued learning fosters expertise across various domains 22 8. Memory Types of memory Sensory memory: instant, momentary storage Short-term memory: holds information for 15 to 30 seconds Long-term memory: stores information more permanently Memory changes in aging Sensory and short-term memory: remain relatively unaffected Long-term memory: efficiency in registration and retrieval declines Retrieval difficulty: challenges in accessing stored information 23 8. Memory Nature of memory declines Efficiency loss: less efficient registration and storage of data Retrieval challenges: difficulty in locating stored information Compensatory strategies Enhanced attention: paying greater attention aids in recall Cognitive strategies: employing various strategies for better retention Memory schemas Definition: organized information structures aiding recall Role: help categorize, interpret, and remember new information 24 8. Memory Function of schemas Categorization: organize the world into understandable patterns Behavior interpretation: guide behavior and interactions based on experience Cultural relevance Schema impact: schemas influence the interpretation & recall of cultural tales Recollection efficiency: material consistent with schemas is easier to recall 25 8. Memory Improving memory Cognitive training: Engaging in memory-enhancing activities Lifestyle factors: Healthy diet, regular exercise, and quality sleep Mnemonic devices: Techniques aiding memory retention and recall 26 Social and Personality Development in Middle Adulthood 27 1. Adult personality development Life events models Focus: events, not age, shape personality development Examples: first child at 21 vs. First child at 39 - similar psychological forces Impact of varied life events Shared psychological experiences despite age differences 28 2. Erikson's stage of generativity vs stagnation Erikson's view: Generativity vs. Stagnation Generativity Making contributions to family, community, work, and society Mentorship, parenting, creative endeavours as means of contribution Focus on leaving a lasting impact beyond personal pursuits Stagnation Lack of psychological growth Feeling of limited contributions and significance Floundering, seeking new careers, frustration, or boredom 29 2. Erikson's stage of generativity vs stagnation Expansions on Erikson’s ideas 1. Vaillant & Gould Vaillant: "keeping the meaning" vs. Rigidity around ages 54- 55 Gould: seven stages associated with specific age periods 2. Levinson's seasons of life theory Transition and crisis in early 40s - midlife transition Questioning life's finite nature, facing signs of aging Midlife crisis: reassessing past accomplishments, seeking corrections 30 2. Erikson's stage of generativity vs stagnation 3. Reality of midlife crisis?  Contrary to common belief, most passage into middle age is tranquil  Majority find midlife rewarding; career and family dynamics change positively  Feeling younger than chronological age is linked to better health outcomes 4. Critique of midlife crisis concept Lack of evidence for a universal midlife crisis Notion perpetuated by memorable examples, not majority experiences For many, middle age brings few changes; varies across cultures 31 3. Stability vs change in personality Stability versus change in personality Perceived similarities: many feel similarities between present selves and younger selves in basic traits Theoretical views: Erikson, Levinson suggest substantial change over time Research perspective: debate between stability and change in personality traits 32 3. Stability vs change in personality Evidence of stability Costa and Mccrae's findings: remarkable stability in particular traits over the lifespan Trait continuity: even-tempered, affectionate, disorganized traits persist across ages. Age amplification: traits become more ingrained with age confidence or shyness intensifies 33 3. Stability vs change in personality Personality traits Trait stability past 30: neuroticism, extraversion, and openness decline slightly agreeableness and conscientiousness increase Cross-cultural consistency: basic traits show stability across cultures 34 3. Stability vs change in personality Reconciling stability and change Apparent contradictions: basic traits show continuity, yet life events and experiences lead to changes Impactful life events: changes in family, career, health, aging, understanding of mortality 35 3. Stability vs change in personality Complex nature: Personality traits tend to show stability but are susceptible to changes influenced by life events and aging Continual interplay: Both stability and change coexist, shaping personality in middle adulthood 36 4. Marriage and divorce Changing trends in marriage Variety in marital status: Increased diversity in middle adulthood – more single, remarried, cohabiting, married individuals Blended families: divorce leads to 'blending' of families, including children and stepchildren from previous marriages 37 4. Marriage and divorce Marital satisfaction Ups and downs: Marital satisfaction follows a u-shaped trajectory Factors of satisfaction: Friendship, mutual respect, shared goals, growing interest in spouses Sexual satisfaction: quality over frequency is pivotal for overall marital satisfaction 38 4. Marriage and divorce Coping mechanisms in marriage Realistic expectations: Acceptance of partner's imperfections and occasional disagreements Positive focus: Emphasizing partner's positive traits while handling disagreements constructively Compromise: Avoiding scorekeeping and recognizing that compromise is essential Open communication: Addressing concerns calmly and openly to maintain a healthy relationship 39 4. Marriage and divorce Rising divorce rates in middle adulthood Increased divorce: Despite overall declining rates, midlife divorces are on the rise. Causes of divorce: Reduced time together, emphasis on personal happiness, social acceptance, declining passion, increased stress. Impact of infidelity: Infidelity contributes to marital breakdown but lacks reliable statistics due to underreporting 40 4. Marriage and divorce Challenges and outcomes of divorce Challenges for women: Traditional roles can lead to employment struggles post-divorce Positive outcomes: Personal growth, independence, entering new relationships post-divorce Remarriage trends: 75-80% remarry within 2 to 5 years; many prefer partners who have also experienced divorce 41 4. Marriage and divorce Factors affecting remarriage Gender disparity: Older women face challenges in remarrying due to societal norms and perceptions of age Motivations for remarriage: Social stigma, Companionship, Economic stability, Overall life satisfaction 42 4. Marriage and divorce Characteristics of second marriages Realistic expectations: More mature outlook, realistic expectations, equitable sharing of roles Higher divorce rates: Stressors like blending families and different priorities contribute to slightly higher divorce rates in second marriages 43 4. Marriage and divorce Success in remarriage Satisfaction levels: Remarried couples report satisfaction levels similar to those in successful first marriages Successful remarriage: Despite challenges, many couples find contentment and stability in remarriage 44 5. Family evolutions Empty nest syndrome Parental transition: Departure of children prompts feelings of unhappiness, loneliness, and worry Challenges for traditional homemakers: Loss can be particularly challenging for women solely focused on homemaking Positive shifts: Opportunity for personal pursuits, career, or education after children leave home 45 5. Family evolutions Impact on men and women Fathers' emotions: Nearly a quarter of fathers express unhappiness, often regretting missed opportunities with their children Helicopter parenting: Some parents exhibit intrusive behaviors, micromanaging their children's lives from college to the workplace 46 5. Family evolutions Boomerang children: refilling the empty nest Return of adult children: Economic factors lead to a significant increase in young adults living with middle- aged parents Parental finances and social dynamics: While beneficial financially, impacts on relationships vary among boomerang children The sandwich generation Dual responsibilities: Middle-aged adults juggle caring for aging parents and supporting their own children Psychological complexity: Role reversal and resistance in elderly parents; middle-aged adults become caregivers 47 5. Family evolutions Multigenerational households Growing trend: Increase in households accommodating three or more generations Renegotiated roles: Adjustment in relationships, decision-making, independence; challenges in finding common ground 48 5. Family evolutions Care burden and cultural influence Unequal burden: Women, even in dual-income households, often shoulder the majority of care responsibilities Cultural perceptions: Variations in how different cultures perceive caregiving roles and familial obligations Psychological rewards Growth in attachment: Continued emotional growth and acceptance between middle-aged children and their elderly parents Closer relationships: Appreciation of strengths and acceptance of weaknesses foster closer bonds 49 6. Work and career Shift in priorities Productivity: often the peak time for productivity, success, and earning power Changing values: occupational success might become less alluring family and personal interests gain importance Evolution of job satisfaction Shift in concerns:  middle-aged workers prioritize present aspects like pay, working conditions, and policies over future-oriented concerns like advancement Stress levels: changes in job quality impact stress levels overall job satisfaction increases with age 50 6. Work and career Job satisfaction dynamics Age-work relationship: older workers tend to exhibit higher job satisfaction due to fewer opportunities for job changes Acceptance and satisfaction: acceptance of existing positions may translate into contentment due to limited options for change Challenges and dissatisfaction Burnout phenomenon: occurs due to increasing disillusionment, frustration, and weariness from jobs, particularly in roles involving helping others Growing cynicism: Results in skepticism about the impact of their work and a shift from idealism to pessimism. 51 67. Work and career Combating burnout Reframing goals: encouraging focus on achievable and impactful tasks within their roles Celebrating small victories: recognizing and appreciating small successes to counterbalance the enormity of societal issues Mental disengagement: emphasizing the need to detach from work during leisure time to prevent burnout mentally 52 7. Unemployment Psychological impact Anxiety, depression, irritability: unemployment triggers feelings of anxiety, depression, and irritability. Decline in self-confidence: individuals experience a plummet in self-confidence and struggle with concentration. Health and mental well-being Increased suicide rates: unemployment spikes suicide rates by 4% for every 1% rise in the unemployment rate. Psychiatric admissions: admissions to psychiatric facilities rise by 4% for men and 2% for women during times of increased unemployment 53 7. Unemployment Psychosocial consequences Negative impact of free time: withdrawal from community activities, reduced reading, tardiness for appointments. Prolonged unemployment: Middle-aged adults often experience longer periods of unemployment with limited opportunities for reemployment 54 7. Unemployment Age discrimination Challenges for older workers: discrimination despite being more reliable, having lower absenteeism, being eager to learn new skills Impact on views and outlook: taint an individual's worldview, leading to pessimism, cynicism, and despondency 55 7. Unemployment Psychological adjustment Emotional challenges: overcoming job loss requires significant psychological adjustment and time Challenges in career transition: those who find new careers face their own set of challenges and adjustments 56 8. Careers changes at midlife Motivations for career change Seeking new challenges: current job roles might lack challenge after achieving mastery, leading to a desire for something new Adapting to job changes: dissatisfaction due to unwelcome changes in job roles, increased workload, or technological advancements Fresh start or burnout: some seek a fresh start due to burnout, dissatisfaction with status, a feeling of being stuck in a routine Re-entering the workforce: especially prevalent among women after raising children or post-divorce 57 8. Careers changes at midlife Challenges and realities  Unmet expectations: unrealistic expectations about new careers lead to potential disappointment  Entry-level positions: middle-aged career changers might start at entry-level positions alongside considerably younger peers Long-term benefits  Rejuvenation and value: despite challenges, starting anew in middle adulthood can be refreshing and rewarding  Appreciation and valuable skills: diverse experiences, maturity, and skills, making them valued employees 58 8. Careers changes at midlife Future career trends Rapid technological changes: predictions suggest frequent career shifts due to rapid technological advancements Multiple careers in a lifetime: a future scenario foresees individuals having multiple careers during their lifetimes due to ongoing technological changes Impact of career changes in diverse contexts Immigrating to another country as an adult often involves significant career changes, reflecting the adaptability of individuals 59 9. Leisure time Leisure activities Television viewing: middle-aged adults spend an average of around 51 hours per week watching TV Active engagement: engage in diverse leisure pursuits like sports, civic engagement, and socializing Socializing: spending around 6 hours per week socializing and participating in community activities 60 9. Leisure time Early retirement  Gratifying lifestyle: enjoying a fulfilling life with good health exploration of new activities  Financial security: adequate financial resources enable early retirees to enjoy leisure activities for decades Perception of leisure time  Pace of life: despite increased leisure time since 1965, the pace of life in the US remains fast, leading to fragmented free time  Scattered time: engaging in various activities scatters free time into shorter chunks, creating a perception of no substantial increase in leisure time 61 References Freund AM. The bucket list effect: Why leisure goals are often deferred until retirement. American Psychologist. 2020 May;75(4):499. Hyvärinen M, Sipilä S, Kulmala J, Hakonen H, Tammelin TH, Kujala UM, Kovanen V, Laakkonen EK. Validity and reliability of a single question for leisure-time physical activity assessment in middle-aged women. Journal of aging and physical activity. 2019 Oct 4;28(2):231-41. 62 Thank You! 63