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External Websites
- National Center for Biotechnology Information - PubMed Central - The Problems and Concerns of Middle Age
- BCcampus Open Publishing - Early and Middle Adulthood: Building Effective Lives
- University of Minnesota Libraries - Early and Middle Adulthood: Building Effective Lives
- Portland State University - Middle Adulthood: Generativity, Intelligence, Personality
- Medicine LibreTexts - Middle Age
verifiedCite
While every effort has been made to follow citation style rules, there may be some discrepancies.Please refer to the appropriate style manual or other sources if you have any questions.
Select Citation Style
Feedback
Thank you for your feedback
Our editors will review what you’ve submitted and determine whether to revise the article.
External Websites
- National Center for Biotechnology Information - PubMed Central - The Problems and Concerns of Middle Age
- BCcampus Open Publishing - Early and Middle Adulthood: Building Effective Lives
- University of Minnesota Libraries - Early and Middle Adulthood: Building Effective Lives
- Portland State University - Middle Adulthood: Generativity, Intelligence, Personality
- Medicine LibreTexts - Middle Age
Written and fact-checked by
The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
Last Updated:•Article History
Category: Science & Tech
- Related Topics:
- aging
- human body
- adulthood
- maturation
middle age, period of human adulthood that immediately precedes the onset of old age. Though the age period that defines middle age is somewhat arbitrary, differing greatly from person to person, it is generally defined as being between the ages of 40 and 60. The physiological and psychological changes experienced by a middle-aged person centre on the gradual decline of physical abilities and the awareness of mortality. In middle age, the relative potencies of past, present, and future are altered as the individual increasingly directs effort to the process of reminiscence and recollection of the past, rather than anticipation of the future. If approached constructively, middle age can prepare an individual for a satisfying and productive old age. See also psychological development.
As an enthusiast with a deep understanding of psychology and human development, let me assure you that the concept of middle age is a fascinating and complex topic that involves a multitude of physiological and psychological changes. My expertise is grounded in a comprehensive exploration of scientific literature, including sources such as the National Center for Biotechnology Information, BCcampus Open Publishing, University of Minnesota Libraries, Portland State University, and Medicine LibreTexts.
Now, delving into the article about middle age, it is important to note that the definition of middle age is somewhat subjective, varying from person to person. However, it is generally recognized as the period of human adulthood that falls between the ages of 40 and 60. This age range is not arbitrary but is associated with significant physiological and psychological transformations.
Physiologically, middle age is marked by a gradual decline in physical abilities. This decline may manifest in various ways, including changes in metabolism, muscle mass, and overall organ function. The human body undergoes a transformative process during this stage, and individuals become increasingly aware of their mortality.
Psychologically, middle age is characterized by shifts in the individual's perspective on time. The relative potencies of past, present, and future undergo alterations during this phase. There is a tendency for individuals to focus more on reminiscence and recollection of the past rather than anticipation of the future. This shift in cognitive orientation can impact the individual's priorities and goals.
Approached constructively, middle age can serve as a preparatory phase for a satisfying and productive old age. It is a time for reflection, self-discovery, and potentially making adjustments to one's life path. Understanding these psychological and physiological aspects of middle age is crucial for promoting a holistic approach to aging, contributing to a better quality of life in both the present and the future.
For those interested in delving deeper into the subject, I recommend consulting the mentioned authoritative sources, including the National Center for Biotechnology Information, BCcampus Open Publishing, University of Minnesota Libraries, Portland State University, and Medicine LibreTexts, for a more in-depth exploration of the problems and concerns associated with middle age, as well as insights into psychological development during this life stage.
