Final answer:
Learned helplessness in the elderly often presents as reduced motivation and initiative, leading to passive behavior and social withdrawal. This psychological state is contrary to theories which suggest that engagement and social connections are crucial for the well-being of the elderly. To counter learned helplessness, interventions like cognitive rehabilitation and activities that foster social connectedness are important.
Step-by-step explanation:
Learned helplessness in the elderly often takes the form of reduced motivation and initiative (option C). This concept, introduced by psychologist Martin Seligman, refers to the state in which individuals, after experiencing a series of uncontrollable events, come to believe that they have no control over what happens to them. This belief can lead to passivity and a lack of effort to change one's situation, even in instances where effective action could be possible.
In the context of the elderly, learned helplessness may manifest as a reluctance to engage in new activities or to maintain social connections, despite the fact that social involvement and activity levels are correlated with happiness and well-being according to activity theory. Additionally, as individuals age, socioemotional selectivity theory suggests that while social networks may shrink, the emotional closeness of these relationships often increases, highlighting the importance of maintaining a sense of control and initiative in one's social life.
Nonetheless, over time, some elderly individuals might become less active and socially engaged not merely by choice but also due to internalized feelings of helplessness. Combating this can involve cognitive rehabilitation, which includes activities that aim to sustain cognitive functioning and encourage an active lifestyle, as well as interventions that promote social connectedness and support.