Adult Age-Level Characteristics
Young Adults Middle Adults Older Adults Physical Measure time since birth; learning preferences and abilities established by age 20, reach physical peak Begin to measure time as "time till death"; coming to terms with mortality; mid-life physical changes Losses, fear of loss; ability may be affected by hearing and sight losses; increasing healthcare needs and chronic illnesses Social "Intimacy vs. Isolation" (Erik Erikson); needing others vs. being emotionally distant; finding place in society and in community; struggle with independence, identity, and intimacy; early stages of occupation and relationship building "Generativity vs. Stagnation" (Erik Erikson); serving others vs. being self-absorbed; range of interests include career planning, personal growth, relationship development, problem solving, and values clarification "Integrity vs. Despair" (Erik Erikson); life has meaning vs. a life full of regrets; adjustment to retirement; close relationships dwindling through death; increasing dependence upon others; volunteerism and caregiving are important Emotional Entering adult world; intimacy; settling down; need to be accepted Managing mid-life crises and transitions (e.g., death of parents, empty nest, etc.); shedding burdens of early childhood; parenting issues Need to be valued, accepted, and respected by persons and institutions Intellectual Learn best when not under stress; time is valuable; prefer problem-centered learning over subject-centered; want to apply insights to daily living Self-directed learning; want to be involved in decisions about learning; want input from knowledgeable persons, resources, and groups Build on life experiences; use visual images and mental pictures to enhance learning; encourage self-paced and problem-centered learning activities Spiritual Many seek spiritual experiences; may be returning to church; want answers; others want chance to raise questions and search Want to understand the meaning of life, values, and priorities, and one's place in the world; taking responsibility for one's own spiritual needs Want arena to grow in faith and to accept life story; need purpose in life; need to feel life worth living; may want to share one's life and faith story and mentor others Special Needs Want to be treated and respected as adults and peers; want arenas for fellowship, service, and ministry to others Context of learning is important; climate for learning and thinking; traumatic events or life crises often cause involvement in learning activities Opportunities for continued growth; service vs. busy work; daytime activities and accessible surroundings; good lighting and acoustics Gifts to Share Expanding knowledge, creativity, and intimacy; willingness to take risks Dependability; steadiness; concern for the future; financial resources Wisdom; time; endurance; objectivity; life experiences; hope; and acceptance of death Vocation Seeking fulfilling work; on-the-job training Questioning; reaping; career changes, mentoring Retirement from primary career; may re-enter or reinvent work Expectations of the Church Often want answers Want to live out answers discovered Stable; place for friendships; sacramental nature of church Copyright © Richard H. Gentzler, Jr., D.Min., Center on Aging & Older Adult Ministries, General Board of Discipleship, P.O. Box 340003, Nashville, TN 37203-0003. Phone toll-free: 877/899-2780 Ext. 7173. E-mail: rgentzler@gbod.org. Used by permission.