Question

What kind of physical and social barriers exist in late adulthood that can prevent new social relationships from forming?

Answer 1

Late adulthood starts after retirement. This is the age one might have completed one’s familial and societal obligations but personally they would have sacrificed many things. Had they completed their earlier stage successfully, they would be happy and content otherwise despair will cripple them. In the western societies and in all the developed countries elders are taken to a home that is run by the state or they live on their own. Children don’t keep parents with them mostly, so there are certain challenges they might face during their late adulthood.

Loneliness – This is one of the killers in the late adulthood as all the children might have got married and settled in different places. If they have a partner, they could spend some time together, if not loneliness will bring enormous amount of stress that would paralyze them mentally.

Social acceptance and opportunities – They live alone most of the time or in a home where they don’t come to know of the socializing opportunities available for them.

Illness and disability – Most people at this stage are affected by illness or some disability which will limit their movement and interaction with the outside world.

Fear of negligence – They themselves fear that people will not accept them into their community because of the generation gap.