The concept of “middle age” has changed drastically since the “baby boomers” began to approach their 50s. Exactly how do you define “middle age?” Statistically, the average American can expect to live to age 74, so middle age can be 37, but not many 37-year-olds consider themselves middle aged. Harold Bloomfield, in a Newsweek article, says that he sees an increase in dysmorphophobia, or the intense but unfounded fear of looking ugly. With all the methods available to stave off the “middle age uglies”—diet, exercise, Retin-A, melatonin, hair dye, and plastic surgery—people are actually pushing back the concept of middle age to after 50. Gail Sheehy says, “We’ve broken the evolutionary code….In only a century, we’ve added 30 years to the life cycle.” Thus, many developmentalists believe that middle age can begin anywhere from 40 to 70.
Based on what you have read in the book and your understanding of Middle Adulthood, answer the following questions using at least 3 complete sentences:
Given the decline in vision that takes place in middle adulthood, should a vision test be required when renewing a driver’s license beginning at age 50?
What jobs in midlife might especially require fluid intelligence?