Chapter Four

1. Chapter Four Life Transitions: Middle to Late Adulthood

2. Phases of LifeMiddle Adulthood • A woman is in middle adulthood in her 40’s - 50’s • This is referred to as “middle age” • Many women consider this the time period free from obligations and full of fun • This age group is increasing more rapidly based on the baby boomer generation • The U.S. Census Bureau estimates 37.6 million 45-54 year olds (2000)

3. Middle AdulthoodPhysical Status • The body of the middle-aged woman shows signs of aging: • Hair • Face appearance • Skin • Reduced recovery from exercise soreness • Body fat is more difficult to reduce so adjustments must be made • Aging is a reflection of accumulated wisdom and experience, earned from a life’s work of achievements

4. Middle AdulthoodMenopause • Menopause is the time when the middle aged woman’s reproductive cycle comes to an end • Perimenopause is the early symptoms suggesting menopause is near • Occurs in women during the late 40’s to early 50’s • Symptoms that were present at perimenopause become more severe, once the menstrual cycle ceases (see Chapter 15 for additional information)

5. Middle AdulthoodFamily Values • The concept of the empty-nest syndrome can be a factor at this stage • This stage reflects a time for doing things that have been postponed because of other priorities • Other personal relationships become more developed or become a reflection of their current self-identity • Roles are changed within the family structure, the possibility of becoming a grandmother or even great-grandmother • The concept of the sandwich generation is more of a reality, becoming a caregiver for parents and children

6. Middle AdulthoodFinancial Status • Middle aged women usually own personal property or more possessions • Women who are not financially well-off, place tremendous burden on the ideals of retirement • Women must take responsibility at this stage to provide for eventual retirement and a positive fiscal portfolio • Less than half of working women were participating in a retirement or pension plan (PWBA, June 2000)

7. Middle AdulthoodLife Goals • Women look back and reflect upon their past accomplishments at this stage • The lifespan is limited and the awareness for accomplishments is greater • This evaluation process is known as the midlife crisis • Sometimes, the relationship partner goes through this stage, resulting in a separation or divorce • In 2000, more than 3 million middle-aged women were divorced or widowed (aged 45-54)

8. Late Adulthood • When a woman reaches the age of 60, this late adulthood stage is referred as a senior citizen • The U.S. Bureau reports that 57% of people over the age of 65 were women • It is important to encourage older women to consider their future health status and inform health policy makers of their concerns

9. Late AdulthoodPhysical Status • The body of the senior woman demonstrates continuation of the aging process • “Seniorhood” is at time when women are at greater risk for disorders and diseases associated with aging • The WHO reported that walking disability is one of the most important quality of life functions for older women • Older women suffer more functional limitations than older men, however, are not considered frail • Exercise can postpone or diminish the symptoms of many disorders related to aging

10. Late AdulthoodFamily Values • The older adult woman struggle to maintain a sense of meaning/purpose, especially due to the lack of dependence from others as was in earlier periods • The “wise crone” archetype does not hold true in today’s society regarding the status of elderly women • However, the elderly do have much to teach the younger generation, especially regarding family values and virtues • Many older people still enjoy an active sex life, often better than in their early adulthood

11. Late AdulthoodElder Abuse and Neglect • Elder abuse falls into 3 categories: • Domestic elder abuse • Any form of maltreatment of an older person by someone who has a special relationship with the person • Institutional elder abuse • Forms of abuse that occur in residential facilities • Self-neglect or self-abuse • Refusal or failure of the elderly to provide for their own needs for adequate daily routines Financial abuse is another type of victimization against the elderly

12. Late AdulthoodFinancial Status • For many elderly, Social Security is their only retirement plan and source of income • Between 2010 and 2030, the over 65 population will rise more than 70%, while the tax paying population will rise less than 4% • This will effect Social Security funds, due to be exhausted by 2037 • It is highly recommended that elderly people not rely on this form of pension to accommodate their financial needs during retirement

13. Late AdulthoodLife Goals • The senior woman may be facing retirement issues • She usually quits work and spends time with recreation and travel • Physical activity should be an important source of activity • Participation in social groups is another way to stay active and involved • Stressors such as medical and financial concerns become a possible factor unique to other age groups

14. Late AdulthoodApproaching the End of Life/Final Wishes • A Living Will is a legal document that expresses a person’s wishes concerning dying and life support • Consulting with an attorney is best advised to prepare for financial costs and preparing for your last testament • Decisions regarding funeral arrangements should be made in advance due to: • Assures that your wishes will be followed • Saves the grieving family members the stress of providing arrangements • Financial concerns and arrangements

15. Chapter Four Life Transitions: Middle to Late Adulthood