ABSTRACT
Clearly, development for both genders does not end with the onset of middle adulthood. Nevertheless, older adults face a double standard as they approach midlife. For instance, the media tend to disregard older women or portray them in a negative fashion. Men are most often viewed as being in their prime and reaping the benefits of career building in young adulthood. Women, on the other hand, face ageism that is perpetuated by a society that disparages the physical changes that come with growing older (e.g., menopause, graying, wrinkles) and are viewed as worthless as their children have left the home and assumed independent lives. Many of these women, however, are responsible for providing emotional support for their adolescent and adult children and their own aging parents. Moreover, many older women and men take on a significant role in raising and caring for their grandchildren. Other women go back to school or reenter the workforce if they are not already active in a career.
Both genders experience cognitive and physical decline as they approach retirement age. These changes may correlate function impairment with psychological difficulties as those suffering struggle to adjust to decline in abilities. This decline may be more evident in women; they live longer than their male counterparts and may require more social support. Close family members and friendships may help buffer some of the unpleasant outcomes of aging and make later life a more positive and productive experience. Even in the face of physical difficulties, older women can accomplish great things.
