Physical Development across the Lifespan-

The discussion this week focuses on ageism. You will need to consult with 3 older adults (preferably someone between ages 35-50, another between ages 51-65, and another who is 66+), such as your parents, grandparents, relatives, or neighbors. Collect the information and then put it in essay format.

First, ask yourself, and then ask the people you are interviewing, the following questions:

1. What age is middle age? Why do you think this is the case? What are the typical physical signs of aging in middle age?

2. What is old age? Why do you think this is the case? What are the typical physical signs of aging in old age?

3. Are societal attitudes for attractiveness and fitness the same or different for people aged 20 versus 30 versus 40 versus 50 years? Be sure to state what the standards of beauty are, and whether they are the same/different for each of these groups and for men and women. Also, ask each person who is their ideal of beauty and why (i.e., get a name and age; usually people select movie stars)?

Second, for the interviewees, ask if the person has been exposed to societal attitudes because of his/her age AND what, if any, physical changes the person has noticed in his/her physical health and endurance.