What is defined as late adulthood?

Late adulthood is commonly defined as the stage of life that begins in the mid-sixties and continues until death. This period is characterized by significant physical, cognitive, and social changes. Individuals in late adulthood mayexperience various challenges, including health issues and changes in social roles, such as retirement or loss of loved ones.

The definition aligns well with gerontological studies that classify late adulthood as a stage beginning around age 65, which corresponds with the typical retirement age and marked changes in lifestyle and health. This age range recognizes the unique developmental tasks and challenges faced by older adults, distinguishing this period from earlier stages of life.

In contrast, the other definitions do not capture the established timeframe that denotes late adulthood. For instance, defining it as the time from early adulthood until retirement or as the period after age 80 does not align accurately with the broader consensus in developmental psychology regarding age classifications. Similarly, describing it as middle age transitioning into old age encompasses a different and earlier developmental phase.