Theories of aging MCQ with answers

Cognitive psychology is a branch of psychology that focuses on studying how the mind works, specifically in terms of mental processes such as perception, attention, memory, language, and problem-solving. It explores how individuals acquire, process, and store information, and how these cognitive processes influence behavior. This explanation aligns with the given description of "psychology that examines how the mind works," making cognitive psychology the correct answer.

Senescence refers to the process of aging or growing old. It is the stage of life when an individual reaches their later years and experiences physical and mental decline. This is characterized by a decrease in physical abilities, increased vulnerability to diseases, and a decline in cognitive functions. Therefore, the correct answer is "Old age."

Later adulthood refers to the life stage after the age of 65+. This stage is characterized by various physical, cognitive, and social changes. During this phase, individuals may experience retirement, changes in health, and adjustments in their social roles. They may also face challenges related to aging, such as declining physical abilities and increased risk of chronic illnesses. This stage is often associated with wisdom, reflection, and the opportunity for personal growth and fulfillment.

Erikson defines older age as a stage of life where individuals face the psychosocial conflict of integrity versus despair. This stage occurs in late adulthood, typically after the age of 65. During this stage, individuals reflect on their lives and evaluate whether they have lived a meaningful and fulfilling life. Those who have a sense of integrity feel a sense of satisfaction and wisdom, while those who experience despair may feel regret and a sense of hopelessness. This stage involves coming to terms with mortality and accepting the limitations of aging.

Erikson holds the belief that conflict at the end of each stage defines us. This refers to Erik Erikson's psychosocial theory, which suggests that individuals go through different stages of development throughout their lives, and each stage is marked by a specific conflict or challenge. Successfully resolving these conflicts contributes to the formation of our identity and shapes our overall personality.

Arthritis is the most common impairment among elderly persons. This condition refers to inflammation of the joints, causing pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. It is more prevalent in older adults due to wear and tear on the joints over time. Arthritis can significantly impact an individual's ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) such as dressing, bathing, and walking. Therefore, it is considered the most common impairment among the elderly population.

The term "sandwich generation" refers to a group of people who are simultaneously caring for their aging parents and their own children. This can be a challenging and demanding role, as individuals in this situation often have to balance the needs and responsibilities of both generations. They may have to provide emotional, financial, and physical support to their parents while also taking care of their own children. The term "sandwich" is used to depict the feeling of being squeezed between two generations, with responsibilities and obligations on both sides.

Continuity refers to the idea that personality and coping mechanisms remain relatively stable and consistent throughout a person's life. This means that individuals tend to exhibit consistent patterns of behavior, thoughts, and emotions as they age. It suggests that while people may experience changes and growth, their fundamental personality traits and ways of coping with stress and challenges remain relatively constant. This concept is supported by research in developmental psychology, which has found that personality traits tend to be relatively stable over time, with some degree of stability observed even into old age.

Knapp (1997) suggested that greater social interactions lead to a greater satisfaction of life. This implies that having more connections and interactions with others can contribute to an overall sense of fulfillment and happiness. Social interactions provide opportunities for support, companionship, and a sense of belonging, which are all important factors in enhancing life satisfaction.

The correct answer is Political Economy Theory. This theory suggests that aging is influenced by power dynamics and is socially constructed. It emphasizes the importance of understanding how the elderly are perceived and treated in relation to power dynamics. This theory focuses on the economic and political factors that shape the experiences of older adults in society.