Objective 11:1

The physical abilities of most people peak in their twenties and declines as they age. While people are middle-aged their physical abilities have more do with heath and exercise than their age but as they continue to age even the physically fit can begin to lose their physical vigor. As physical traits of people change with age this may have a psychological effect on them. Their culture determines if it is positive or negative.

Identify the major physical changes that occur in middle adulthood

Menopause

The permanent end of the primary functions of the human ovaries.

Typically occurs (but not always) in women during their midlife. – (late 40s or early 50s)

Signals the ending of the menstrual cycle and end of their fertile phase.

Tends to occur over a period of years as you age.

Men’s Experience

Unlike women, men don’t experience an end in fertility. Instead, they experience a gradual decline in sperm count, testosterone level, and speed of erection and ejaculation.

Depression, irritability, insomnia, impotence, or weakness may occur if testosterone level plummets too fast.

Some may also experience psychological distress related to perception, but most men age without such problems.