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Perceptions of Aging

A typical older adult is an individual aged 65 years or above. These individuals are often lonely as they are left out in key societal meetings and social interactions. There is a feeling that they need to rest and engage in fewer activities due to their decreased energy levels and mobility. They have many emotional needs such as relaxation due to anxiety, agitation, and at times due to aggression (Sharifian et al., 2019). There is also a feeling that they need attention and assistance in their daily living activities.

Several typical characteristics are expected to be observed among older adults. First, they have a positive mindset that can be observed from their expression of speech, such as being calm and prioritizing to solve problems (Sharifian et al., 2019). Another characteristic is social relationships, as many older adults tend to shy away from social interactions. They tend to maintain close social relationships with their family members and less connected to outsider (Sharifian et al., 2019).

Stubbornness can be observed in most older adults. They are usually not bothered by the opinions and thoughts of other people and always want to do things the way they prefer them as they believe they know more than others, especially those of a younger age.

There is a general feeling of anxiety caused by the worriedness of aging parents. There is a fear that chronic diseases may develop, which may lead to their ultimate death. Consequently, individual aging equally brings anxiety as one perceives time passes very fast, yet there are many unaccomplished goals and targets. Worry can be a risk factor for depression and anxiety.

In my previous engagement with an older adult, it was noticeable that older adults maintain a positive mindset. For example, the older adult kept reflecting on his life when he was a younger adult. He enjoyed sharing his life experience and the accomplishments he had achieved. He had no regrets whatsoever and encouraged me to trust in God. What I learned from the experience was that appreciating the little accomplishments can keep a person motivated to achieve more.