ABSTRACT
This chapter explores some of the issues surrounding senescence, or the process of aging. It examines these issues from the perspective of the medical model because they tend to be biological in nature. Level of functioning relates to the many physical and cognitive/psychological changes that are common in late adulthood. The changes in physical appearance that begin in middle adulthood continue to increase in late adulthood. Few things in US culture seem to cause as much anxiety as the physical changes associated with aging. Social workers can do much to support clients who experience negative effects as they age. Social workers also play crucial roles in promoting optimal well-being for all aging clients. Some of the psychological changes that occur in late adulthood do pose challenges for aging individuals and their support system. The chapter explains some of the issues on an individual level that can affect development in older age.
