Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Elderly adults refer to individuals who are in the later stages of their lives, typically aged 65 years and older. They may experience physical, cognitive, and social changes that come with aging.
Related terms
Ageism: Ageism refers to prejudice or discrimination against individuals based on their age, particularly towards older adults.
Gerontology: Gerontology is the study of aging from biological, psychological, and sociological perspectives.
Social support: Social support refers to the resources provided by social networks that help individuals cope with stressors and enhance overall well-being.