Old age

Old age refers to ages nearing or surpassing the life expectancy of human beings, and is thus the end of the human life cycle. Terms and euphemisms include old people, the elderly (worldwide usage), seniors (American usage), senior citizens (British and American usages), older adults (in the social sciences), and the elders (in many cultures—including the cultures of aboriginal people).

Etymology and definitions

The chronological age denoted as old age varies culturally and historically. In 2011, the United Nations agreed that 60+ years may be usually denoted as old age and this is the first attempt at an international definition of old age. However, for its study of old age in Africa, the World Health Organization (WHO) set 55 as the beginning of old age. At the same time, the WHO recognized that the developing world often defines old age, not by years, but by new roles, loss of previous roles, or inability to make active contributions to society.

Characteristics

Old age comprises "the later part of life; the period of life after youth and middle age . . . , usually with reference to deterioration". Aging is an important part of all human societies reflecting the biological changes that occur, but also reflecting cultural and societal conventions. There is often a general image of old age that is one of decline.

See also

• Aging
• Gerontology
• Life expectancy
• Senior citizen

References

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External links

• World Health Organization: Ageing
• United Nations: Ageing

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