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  1. STAGE OF DEVELOPMENT—PSYCHOSOCIAL STAGE: continuation of generativity versus self-absorption.
  2. PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT
    1. Failing eyesight, especially for close vision, may be one of the first symptoms of aging.
    2. Hearing loss is very gradual, especially for low sounds; hearing for high-pitched sounds is impaired more readily.
    3. There is a gradual loss of taste buds in the 50s and gradual loss of sense of smell in the 60s, causing the individual to have a diminished sense of taste.
    4. Muscle strength declines because of decreased levels of estrogen and testosterone; it takes more time to accomplish the same physical task.
    5. Lung capacity is impaired, which adds to decreased endurance.
    6. The skin begins to wrinkle, and hair begins graying.
    7. Postural changes take place because of loss of calcium and reduced activity.
  3. COGNITIVE DEVELOPMENT
    1. Memory begins to decline slowly around age 50 years.
    2. It takes longer to learn new tasks, and old tasks take longer to perform.
    3. Practical judgment is increased due to experiential background.
    4. May tend to withdraw from mental activity or overcompensate by trying the impossible.
  4. SOCIALIZATION
    1. The middle years can be very rewarding if previous stages have been fulfilled.
    2. The years of responsibility for raising children are over.
    3. Husbands and wives usually find a closer bond.
    4. There is less financial strain for those with steady employment.
    5. Individuals are usually at the height of their careers; the majority of leaders in their field are in this age group.
    6. Self-realization is achieved.
      1. There is more inner direction.
      2. There is no longer a need to please everyone.
      3. Individual is less likely to compare self with others.
      4. Individual approves of self without being dependent on standards of others.
      5. There is less fear of failure in life because past failures have been met and dealt with.