Generally mid and late adulthood can be a wonderful and active time of life, rebirth. Some research has shown that at the age of 50, a renaissance takes place followed by “coalescence of that has been lived and learned and a period of grace and generosity” (Sheehy, 1995).
This can be construed to be second adulthood since it exclusively depends on what has been experienced in previous generations. Therefore it is the time to open to new as well as meaningful ways to be alive. It is important to note that interaction of biological and social factors of having good physical health and supportive family as well as friendships are associated with psychological well-being in late adulthood years. Biologically some bodily systems are seen to decline rapidly than others as one ages. For instance loss of borne tissue is severe, a factor that can lead one to walk with a marked stoop, in addition to orchestrating vulnerability to bone fractures.
Biologically, there is also a decline in the activity of the five senses with vision and auditory loss posing a great danger in late-life adults. This reduced vision can affect one’s independence as well as pleasure in a variety of ways. Hearing loss can impact an older adult’s sense of safety as well as pleasure in addition to increasing one’s sense of social stigmatization.
Late adulthood is also affected by motor ability and cardiovascular and respiratory systems as they undergo some changes. Changes in the above can result in a gradual reduction in the walking or running speed. In instances of lower bone strength, the flexibility of joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons cab be painful posing great danger to an athlete in later old age years.
Psychologically one can be affected by the loss of a paid employment. Whereas the majority of adults rely on the assistance of family members as well as institutions this can greatly affect the well-being of the aging where the support is wanting. Therefore, one should not outlive his/her retirement income to avoid financial dependency in later adulthood. Outliving one’s income can lead to loss of the sense of self-autonomous culminating in also loss of friends, associates, and loved ones. Such changes pose a great challenge in later continuity (William, 2004). The regulation of social life can be a promising quality of life in later adulthood.
Environmental issues such as pollution can affect later adulthood life quality. Exposure to hazardous pollutants can cause health problems that can lead to lowering the quality of life in the aging adult.
Whereas many factors affect the quality of life I have been able to appreciate that health both mental and physical, is the basis of long quality life. Important to note is that quality of life in aging adults is attributed to health-related behavioral changes or lifestyle factors. Lifestyle factors have a tremendous effect on the quality of life and well-being in later years. I have been able to see factors that augment longevity, prevent or delay disabling illness and develop quality life. These include exercise. This by itself is the most significant aspect. Cardiovascular, as well as respiratory utility, is assisted by undertaking numerous physical activities. Physical activity also lowers the loss of muscular strength, boosts borne mass in addition to supporting digestion and bowel functions.
The aspect of physical activity in promoting sound sleep can not be overlooked as much as it prevents depression. Another aspect is that of nutrition which constitutes a healthy diet and utilization of compliments as well as drinking quite an amount of water. It is advisable on the aspect of nutrition for one to have 5 servings of fruits and vegetables and 2 to 4 servings of low-fat dairy products each day. A multivitamin should be employed to supplement as well as 6 to 8 glasses of water or clear fruits as a way of enhancing optimal organ function.
The aspect of good quality of life in adulthood is also affected through smoking in early life. It is important to cease the habit of smoking to lower the risk of contracting heart diseases, stroke, some cancers, bronchitis as well as emphysema. Later life quality life is also affected by excessive alcohol. Limiting alcohol to at least a glass of wine or spirit a day can lower the rate of contracting the liver disease as well as certain cancers. However, precaution should be taken hence, as one advance in years he/she should abstain from alcohol.
Stress is another aspect that affects sound health in aging as it affects the immune system as well as lowering vulnerability to disease. Stress can be reduced through cultivating satisfying associations. Through employing this cognitive functioning is also improved. One must challenge his mind through learning new skills as well as regular mental activity to encourage healthy mental functioning.
In summary, it is important for one anticipating adulthood well-being to embark on a good diet, mental activity, and connectedness with other people to enhance his/her mind as well as memory functioning. Living in a more friendly environmental state also enhances later life well-being. It is also important for one to manage stress to acquire a quality life in old age.
References
- William Crain (2004) Theories of development: Concepts and applications; Prentice Hall.
- The Johns Hopkins prescription for longevity: Health After 50; Johns Hopkins Medical Letter (1998).
- G. Sheehy; Random House (1995). New passages: Mapping your life across time