Chapter 17

Chapter 17
(Families in Later Life)

Summary: This chapter focuses on families and how they grow together, mainly in the later portion of their lives. Its begins with analyzing the older population and how some are dependent and need help to live functionally. Some elderly people are still in the labor force while some have called it quits. The reason behind this may partially be that some say being 'old' is just a state of mind. It is more mental than physical. This is just opinion, but to some, being old effects various aspects of your being. It also differentiates among races. Now, retirement usually deems when 'old' begins. the time where health is an issue and one might not be able to take care of themselves. But to combat this, the chapter describes several ways to take better care of oneself which includes exercising, eating better and more healthier food, low blood pressure and stress. Stress is a big one because it most certainly takes a toll on the mind as well as the body. It can vary from and lead to depression, to dementia or Alzheimer. Retirement usually brings the benefits of social security and medicare while the disadvantage of being taken care of.
It seems from an objective view, that society has a fear of getting old. Whether it may be the health problems or the lack of mobility, society seems to fear it somewhat. We combat or try to adapt to old age by getting botox, plastic surgery or any other method to rewind the clock.
The chapter concludes with discussing grandparenting in its many facets along with death and the process that follows. From parenting styles of being detached to compassionate, involved and advisory, these styles differ among each family. For instance, some grandparents take care of their grandkids directly while some simply serve as babysitters for the grandchildren when they are left in their care by the parents. The complexity of a loved one dying takes a huge toll on the family. The book looks at the way an elderly person may die, how the family might take it, and where they would go on from it.

New Interesting Info: "In the 1800's, your chance of living to 100 was roughly 1 in 20 million, now its 1 in 500."

Question: Referring back to the question, what do you believe is the cause for the drastic change of age between the 1800's and now and do you think it will change even more as the times progresses?