Assignment:
Discussion: Psychological Aspects of Aging
What does it mean to age "successfully"? Though the concept of success is relative, theories of successful aging explain factors that support individuals as they grow old. Factors such as maintaining physical and mental activity and disengaging from community obligations contribute to older adults' ability to function. As a social worker, you must understand these supportive factors in order to address the needs of older clients and their families.
As you will see in this media, situations involving Alzheimer's or dementia, interpersonal conflict, and grief can complicate the process of successful aging. For this Discussion, you review one of two case studies involving an older woman and apply a theory of successful aging to the case.