Think about the older adults in your life, as well the theories and research reviewed in the course
concerning physical, motor, cognitive, social, emotional, and moral development in each life phase.
When you consider these “models of aging,” what comes to mind?
For this Signature Assignment, choose 1-2 individuals to interview and gather information about the
following:
• Historical events and/or factors occurring in any life stage that impact(ed) their aging process
• Interpersonal experiences occurring in any life stage that impact(ed) their aging process
• Educational and career choices and experiences occurring in any life stage that impact(ed) their
aging process
• Physical, cognitive and/or other health factors and/or changes occurring in any life stage that
impact(ed) their aging process.
Then, address all of the following in your final paper:
• Briefly describe who your models are and how they are aging.
• What events and experiences occurring earlier in life impacted their development in late life?
What linkages do you see?
• How do the influences of gender, SES, educational level, sociability, ability level, physical and/or
cognitive health, among others, contribute to their aging processes?
• Which social theories of aging are embodied by your model(s)? Provide examples.