Module Outline

Module 13: Adulthood and Aging

Module 13 is the final segment on developmental psychology. The time spanning from adulthood to the end of one’s life is covered. The module begins with a description of what is “typical” for adult development.

Next, physical changes—especially those near the end of  life—are discussed. Included are menopause, some of the cognitive diseases of old age, and how memory changes throughout one’s life.

Major social transitions in later life are explained. The module concludes by discussing issues of death and dying.

Early Adulthood Transitions and the Social Clock
	Social clock
	Emerging adulthood
Physical Changes and Transitions
	Menopause
	Declining senses
	Telomeres
	Alzheimer’s disease
	Senile dementia
Cognitive Changes and Transitions
	Memory
	Recall
	Recognition
	Fluid intelligence
	Crystallized intelligence
	Verbal intelligence scores
	Nonverbal intelligence scores
Social Changes and Transitions
	College majors, work and happiness
	Love and marriage
	Self-disclosure
	Sharing
	Similar interests and values
	Empty nest syndrome
	Well-being
	Ageism
	Gerontologists
	Hospice care