Chapter 12 : Aging

1. The percentage of people 65 and over now exceeds 12 percent and is estimated to rise to over 20 percent by 2030. What problems are likely to arise with a greater percentage of elderly persons, and how can society successfully confront this challenge?

2. Relying upon your text, concisely and clearly discuss the aging process. Are the changes we experience as we grow old the result only of biological changes within the person? Which are and which are not biologically based? How could society change and alleviate those challenges the aged face?

3. Briefly discuss the competing theories about growing old that are presented in this chapter. How do these theories compete with one another? Which theory do you feel is most appropriate to explain aging and why do you feel this way about it?

4. What do you think your life will be like when you reach the age of 65? In talking about your future, refer to some of the trends on aging discussed in this chapter.

5. According to a recent national poll mentioned in your text, the #1 fear among Americans today is having to spend several years in a nursing home. Why do you think this is so?

6. How will the combination of graying and globalization reshape the lives of the world's elderly population well into the 21 st century?

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