Models of Aging

Please see attachment file. 

MP510 Psychology of the Lifespan – Signature Paper – Models of Aging

Paper Requirements

• Minimum of 6 pages in length, not including a title or reference page formatted in APA style.
• A minimum of 10 in-text citations are required; while the textbook may be used, include at least 3

additional scholarly sources (e.g., peer-reviewed journal articles) you find relevant to the paper
topic.

• Please see rubric for additional grading details.

Assignment Instructions

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.
• How have the model(s) influenced your perspective on and approach to aging?