Tasks of Aging

Just as there are developmental tasks of childhood, aging also has "tasks" that must be accomplished. A task is defined as an "assigned accomplishment." Developmental tasks include physical development along given timelines [sitting up, crawling, walking, potty training, etc]. In older adulthood, tasks come singularly or collectively but at a time when the person is less likely to maneuver them with confidence and finesse. Tasks of aging include:

• Loss of significant others
• Revised relationships
• Independence and control of life
• Coping with retirement and financial changes
• Maintaining satisfactory living arrangements
• Adjustment to physical decline and strength
• Efficient use of medical and social supports
• Assumption of new roles and responsibilities
• Media stereotyping and perceived irrelelvence