ABSTRACT
Many cultures decree that habitual activity should diminish with aging. In western society, a person is expected to ‘slow down’ and ‘enjoy a well-earned rest’ at retirement. Equally, in ‘primitive’ populations, younger adults assume the responsibilities of hunting and gathering for the older members of the community. This chapter will examine attitudes and their impact upon observed activity patterns. The impact of retirement, hospital admission and institutional care will be examined, and implications for diet and nutrition will be explored.
