What is the age of old age
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Defining Old Age: A Comprehensive Overview
Introduction to Old Age
The concept of "old age" is complex and varies significantly across different contexts and disciplines. While some definitions are based on biological markers, others are influenced by social policies and cultural perceptions. This article synthesizes research findings to provide a comprehensive understanding of what constitutes old age.
Biological and Psychological Markers of Old Age
Biological Markers
Biologically, aging is a continuous process that begins at conception and ends with death. The World Health Organization (WHO) considers the age of 60 as the beginning of old age in many developed countries6. This age is often associated with noticeable physical changes such as greying hair, wrinkled skin, and a decline in physical capabilities6.
Psychological Markers
Psychologically, old age is not merely a period of decline but also a stage of development. G. Stanley Hall emphasized the unique psychological processes associated with aging, viewing it as a time of maturity and wisdom rather than just deterioration4. However, the psychological impact of aging can vary widely among individuals, influenced by factors such as mental health, social environment, and personal experiences4.
Social Policy and Old Age
Retirement Age
In many countries, the age at which one is considered old is closely tied to retirement age. In the United Kingdom, for example, the retirement age is 60 for women and 65 for men, although there is a trend towards equalizing this at 65 for both sexes2. This age is often used as a benchmark for eligibility for pensions and other social services2.
Variability in Definitions
There is no universally accepted age that defines old age. Surveys and research often categorize the elderly as those over 60, 65, or 75, making comparisons difficult2. This lack of consensus highlights the need for more nuanced data collection and analysis, such as the efforts by the Gerontology Data Service (GDS) to provide detailed cross-tabulations2.
Age Sub-Groups: Young-Old, Old-Old, and Oldest-Old
Young-Old (65-74)
The "young-old" are generally those aged 65-74. This group is often still relatively active and may not experience significant health issues5.
Old-Old (75-84)
The "old-old" are those aged 75-84. This group begins to show higher rates of frailty and disability, with a noticeable increase in the inability to perform daily activities5.
Oldest-Old (85+)
The "oldest-old," those aged 85 and above, represent a rapidly growing segment of the population. This group faces unique challenges, including higher rates of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular issues, osteoporosis, and dementia3. Public health strategies need to adapt to the specific needs of this age group, including caregiver support and assistive technologies3.
Historical Perspectives on Old Age
Historically, the perception of old age has evolved. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, old age was often viewed negatively, associated with decline and obsolescence4. However, there has been a shift towards recognizing the potential for continued development and contribution in old age4.
Conclusion
The age at which one is considered old varies widely depending on biological, psychological, and social factors. While 60 or 65 is often used as a benchmark in many developed countries, the experience of aging is highly individual. Understanding the nuances of old age requires a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating insights from biology, psychology, and social policy. As the population of the oldest-old continues to grow, it is crucial to develop targeted strategies to support their unique needs and enhance their quality of life.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
What is old age?
Old age is generally considered to be a diagnosis of 77 years or older, with the most common starting point being the mid-eighties through early nineties.
Observational StudyWhen does old age start?
There is no commonly accepted definition of old age in social policy, and data on older individuals is often very general and unreliable.
Age-Related Diseases and Clinical and Public Health Implications for the 85 Years Old and Over Population
This paper highlights the need for clinicians and public health communities to be sensitive to the needs of individuals over 85, with common chronic conditions like cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and dementia, and the need for caregiver support and early childhood healthy behaviors.
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Universal design in the built environment is crucial for addressing the increasing number of older, frail elders, as frailty and disability rates increase with age.
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Ageing is a natural process that begins at conception and ends with death, resulting in physical impairment and functional disability, and increasing dependency.
Highly CitedWhat's New in Old Age?
Old people are found in all societies. The age at which a person is considered old varies from country to country and may indeed vary within individual countries. For example, 55 is considered the official beginning of old age in India, just as, for most purposes, age 65 is the official beginning of old age in the United States. Yet, despite official agreement on when old age begins, as codified in federal statutes and in private pension plans, who is considered old, and when old age begins depends on who is making an age judgment. The American young talk about &dquo;not trusting anyone over 30,&dquo; thus relegating to the outer reaches of &dquo;too old&dquo; about half the American population. At the other end of the life span, at the age of 70, most Americans continue to describe themselves as
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The United States is rapidly becoming a nation of aging individuals due to improved medical services, higher standards of living, declining birth rates, and the curbing of immigration.
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Literature ReviewHighly CitedThe psychology of the oldest-old: the fourth age
Most of our knowledge about ageing stems from the young-old, those aged 60-70 years, and while some of this knowledge is applicable to the oldest-old, we need to differentiate between the 'Third' and 'Fourth Age'.
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