Late adulthood is one of the diverse stages in life where those who accomplished their goals look back and feel a sense of fulfillment, while those who failed to achieve their objectives in life experience regret and depression. Therefore, I think that people who earn their life goals are likely to stay active in their late adulthood and feel the need to associate with others as they share their success stories. Additionally, maintaining active social activities during late adulthood gives people hope for more life and more reasons to live. On the contrary, those filled with regret are likely to withdraw from society and spend their time alone, feeling ashamed for being unable to meet their expectations. Such people are likely to suffer from various psychological disorders due to stress. As a result, they develop a negative perception of life and anticipate adverse outcomes in most cases.
Late adulthood diversity can be attributed to Erik Erikson’s theory of integrity and despair. Late adulthood allows people to reflect on their lives with integrity or despair. Those who have integrity develop wisdom that enables them to be optimistic about life, even in the face of death (Maree, 2021). Such people are likely to explore new opportunities for peace and satisfaction. However, Erikson states that those who experience despair at this stage are likely to see life as a wasted opportunity, developing a sense of worthlessness and hopelessness. They lack wisdom and spend most of their time thinking about death. That is why some are actively engaged in meaningful matters in society; others are depressed and disillusioned.
I want to stay active during my late adulthood stage. Being closely engaged in matters of society will enable me to offer guidance to the young generation. My plan for achieving my goals involves maintaining close ties with my family, being optimistic in all situations, and taking risks by exploring new opportunities. These steps will enable me to develop fulfillment in life and make good use of opportunities in life to avoid regretting in late adulthood.
Reference
Maree, J. G. (2021). The psychosocial development theory of Erik Erikson: Critical overview. Early Child Development and Care, 191(7-8), 1107-1121.