American Psychological Association
Table of Contents
Executive Summary
Authors
Why Practitioners Need Information
Demographic Realities
Myths About Older Adults
Realities of Aging
Psychological Problems
of Aging
Assessment of Older Adults
Psychological Intervention
Professional Concerns
Conclusion
Professional Resources
Bibliography |
Normal age-associated changes typically occur gradually over time.
- Hearing impairment in older adults is often mild or moderate, but it
is widespread. In 1990, 48 percent of men 75 years and over and 37 percent
of women (noninstitutionalized) had problems with hearing.
- Visual changes include problems with reading speed, seeing in dim light,
reading scrolling or other externally paced displays, reading small print,
and locating objects visually.
- Reaction time is typically slower among older adults, particularly
for more complex tasks.
- The probability of having multiple chronic conditions increases with
age. Common comorbidities include arthritis, hypertension, cataracts, heart
disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis.
- Although estimates vary, the proportion of older adults needing personal
assistance with everyday activities increases with age (e.g., 9 percent
of those aged 65-69 and up to 50 percent of those aged 85 or older). After
age 65, a greater proportion of women than men become disabled.
- Despite common physical difficulties, three-fourths of community dwelling
people aged 65 to 74 report their health to be good, very good, or excellent
compared with others their age, as do two-thirds of noninstitutionalized
persons 75 years and over.
- The top five causes of death among older adults are heart disease,
cancer, cerebrovascular disease, pneumonia and influenza, and chronic obstructive
pulmonary disease.
 
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