Question

Compare the major theories of aging.

Answer 1

Theories of aging are :-

1. Psychological includes :-

- Maslow's hierarchy needs

- Erikson's psychological stages

- Selective optimisation with compensation

2. Sociological includes:-

- Activity

- Disengagement

- Continuity

3. Biological includes:-

- Damage

- Programmed

- Genetic

- Gradual Imbalance

a) Comparison of two major biological theory's of aging :-

- programmed theory and damage or error theory = programmed theories implies that aging follows a biological timetable regulated by changes in gene expression that affect the system responsible for maintenance ,repair, and defence responses while the damage theory emphasis environmental assualts to living organisms that induce cumulative damage at various levels as the cause of ageing .

b) Comparison of two sociological theories of ageing :-

- disengagement theory and activity theory = disengagement theory views ageing as a process of mutual withdrawal in which older adults voluntarily slow down by retiring, as expected by society . Mutual social withdrawal benefits both individual and society. Activity theory on the other hand sees a positive correlation between keeping active and ageing well . Mutual social withdrawal runs counter to traditional ideas , activity , energy and industry.

c) Comparison of two psychological theories of aging:-

Maslow's hierarchy needs and Erikson's psychological stages= Human needs - five basic needs motivate human behaviour in a lifelong process towards need fulfillment. While stages of personality states that personality develops in eight stages with corresponding life development tasks . The eighth phase integrity versus despair is characterized by evaluating life accomplishments , struggles include letting go ,accepting care, detachment , physical and mental decline