During the third age we find ourselves in the advanced phase of our life and, although some abilities decrease, full psychological maturity is also consolidated.
Last update: February 18, 2022
How can we define old age? What stages of old age can we identify and how do they differ?
According to Orosa (2014), quoted in an article by MartÃnez et al. (2018), old age is an abstract concept, a phase of life.
On the other hand, authors such as MarÃa del Carmen Amaro (2016), consider it a socio-anthropological construction.
Broadly speaking we can say that old age, also called third age, it is the last period of life, which follows maturity. At this stage we are already at an advanced age and, although some abilities decrease, full psychological maturity is also consolidated.
The 3 stages of old age
We can distinguish three stages of old age: old age, old age proper and seniority. Let's find out what changes occur physically and psychically in each of these three phases.
These are general changes, which do not always happen in the same way (or at the same age) in all people.
Phase 1: prevecchiaia
The first phase of old age is the so-called prevecchiaia which goes from about 55 to 65 years. In women, this phase usually coincides with the last menstrual cycle, that is with the arrival of menopause.
It is the phase that precedes old age itself, in which the physiological and cognitive functions gradually decline.
Physical
On a physical level, sleep disturbances can appear. The hours of sleep decrease and a lower metabolic activity is also common, so you tend to get fat. Digestion becomes slower and heavier, muscle mass atrophies.
Psychological
On a psychological level, the melancholy can appear by remembering the past moments. It is common to compare the present with the past. On the other hand, if you have children, the empty nest syndrome appears (when the children leave the house).
In this sentence moments of loneliness and boredom may also appear, especially if the person retires early or is a widow.
Phase 2: old age proper
The second phase of old age ranges from 65 to 79 years approximately. It is "pure" old age, a period in which physiological functions are further weakened. It is also common to think about the past and relive memories.
Physical
On a physical level, all the typical changes appear: bones weaken, postural and muscular problems arise that cause pain. Making great efforts is usually no longer possible. Digestive disorders also appear and the risk of suffering from some neoplasms increases.
The senses also suffer from it, especially sight (for example with cataracts) and hearing (deafness). This can contribute to a greater evil: isolation.
Psychological
Like the physical sphere, the decline of cognitive processes also increases at the psychic level. Crystallized intelligence is at its maximum capacity (all that has been learned); Conversely, fluid intelligence, related to mental agility, is usually at its lowest point.
Furthermore, it is at this stage that the risk of dementia begins to increase (from 65 years old). In the specific case of Alzheimer's, one of the most common dementias, it increases with age.
According to the DSM-5 (APA, 2013), at age 65 the prevalence of Alzheimer's disease is 0,6% in men and 0,8% in women; at 85% vs. 11%, and at 14% vs. 90%.
Phase 3: seniority
The last phase of old age goes from 80 onwards; the qualitative change on a physical and psychological level is evident.
Physical
Fragility of bones and joints predominates; this, added to other physical changes, can reduce the autonomy of the person.
Elderly people at this stage can sometimes continue to live alone, at other times it is already very difficult. Other health problems also appear which make the person more vulnerable at this stage.
Psychological
Psychologically, mental disorders, such as depression, are more likely to arise due to loneliness and other factors.
There is also a greater risk of social isolation, due to two reasons: friends die and lack of autonomy makes it difficult to leave the house.
The stages of old age can follow one another in different ways
Although each person ages in their own way, each of these three stages of old age can occur in two ways: naturally, that is, physiologically, and pathologically. What does each shape consist of?
Physiological aging
In this case, i degenerative processes or diseases do not prevent the person from adapting to your environment. These changes are part of its natural evolution.
Therefore, the person ages in a "positive" way, despite the inevitable changes. In short: he gradually adapts to the new reality.
Pathological aging
Conversely, pathological aging occurs when degenerative processes and diseases make it difficult for the person to adapt to their environment. More serious and disabling diseases also appear.
Final reflections on the stages of old age
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), between 2000 and 2050 the proportion of the planet's inhabitants over 60 will double. This means that over the course of this half century, we will go from 605 million to 2 billion elderly people or more.
As we have seen, the third age includes several stages. It is a vital phase and a process physiological in which physical, social and psychological changes appear.
"Life changes and the passage of time makes us change too."
Aging is a gradual process, which occurs naturally and dynamically, and that we cannot avoid. Some people cope better than others with advanced age, and this depends on several factors: social support, personality, personal resources, social resources, presence or absence of psychological disorders, etc.
“Treasure all your happy moments; they will be a good pillow for old age. "
-Stand Tarkington-
