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What is Middle Adulthood
As an expert in human development, I would like to like to discuss the stage in life of
middle adulthood and the effects it has on not only the body, but the mind set as they
grow older. To discuss this topic, I must first explain what age group middle adulthood is
described as. According to George (2023) “Middle adulthood begins at age 40 and
continues until 65”. (Shawn George, 2023)
What happens during middle adulthood?
Middle adulthood is the time that the body begins to change again. I remember
just before I turned 40 my body started to ache, and I started to have issues with my
joints. Upon completing my research, I had a better understanding of what was happening
to my body. According to George (2023) “Most will notice outward changes such as the
loss of skin elasticity, graying and/or thinning of the hair, and perhaps weight gain. They
may also begin to experience declines in strength, agility, and stamina. There are also
declines in sensory system function, with sight and hearing being the most notable as
glasses and hearing aids become more common.” (Shawn George, 2023)
So, what does that mean? It is my professional option that each individual person
can set the tone of what their life is going to look like at middle adulthood. In early
adulthood (which is the ages between 20 and 40); being healthy, exercising, staying away
from drugs, alcohol, and practicing safe sex prepares you for a healthier middle
adulthood. Continuing selfcare, exercise, diet and mental health into middle adulthood
can be the key to a longer healthier life.
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What are some other factors?
As George (2023) mentions “it should be noted that a combination of biological,
social, and psychological factors help determine the extent of health declines in middle
adulthood, so there can be quite a bit of variability”. For example, a soldier that has been
serving in the army for 25 years and been in multiple combat zones could have more
underlying conditions than a businessman work a normal 40-hour week. Another factor
could be the biological side, an example of this is someone that has hyperthyroidism in
their family history. That individual now has a higher chance of having the same health
issue as their family history.
These issues and health history can have not only an effect on their physical
health but their mental health as well. These issues can affect their quality of life, careers,
finances, and overall well-being. Another factor is the happiness, relationship with
significant other, and relationship with God. All these can be a factor in your health into
middle adulthood.
Take care of yourself!
If you follow good health habits, this can set you up for a long enjoyable life. A
constant routine of healthy eating, and exercise, along with positive relationship with
friends, family, and most importantly God, can make this possible. That being said this is
not a guarantee that you will not meet adversity during the process, however this type of
lifestyle will put you in a great position.
