Late Adulthood Essay

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The end of life is never a pleasant topic, but sometimes, it may be expected when working with an elderly person at the end of their life span and developmental process. An increase in lifespan and quality of life means that an old adult will require much family support to focus on their needs when they retire. Statistical studies show that Singapore population is projected to age rapidly over the next two decades (as the result of past rapid fertility and mortality declines and the ageing of the huge cohorts of Post-World War II baby boomers born between 1947 and 1965). Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports (2009). The renowned psychologist Erikson described the stages of life as a journey of sorts, and late adulthood as the period where one comes to term with the end of their life path. Erikson (1950) described the late adult stage of life as coming to accept one’s whole life and reflecting on that life in a positive manner. He calls this final stage of development Integrity versus Despair theory. In this essay, we will discuss on current theory related to reducing their physical, psychological and social challenges of old age and how nurses and family members can implement strategies to assist them to enjoy a productive and fulfilling life during their golden years. Late adulthood is usually considered to begin at about age 65 and last to the end of the lifespan. Most people age 65 and older are capable of living active, independent, productive lives, but with age catching up, growing numbers need assistance. Erik Erikson suggests that at this time in life it is important to find meaning and satisfaction in life rather than to become bitter and dissatisfied, that is, to resolve the conflict of Integrity vs. Despair. Integrity vs. Despair is only one of eight of Erik Erickson’s stages of Human Development and is also the last stage. During this

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