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A medical assistant is talking to an older adult patient who expresses frustration about having to look forward to retirement but now finding "too much time on my hands." What is one of the developmental tasks for this patient age group?

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Final answer:

Older adults entering retirement face the developmental task of finding new forms of generativity, such as volunteering or mentoring, to avoid feelings of stagnation and maintain a sense of purpose and connection.

Step-by-step explanation:

One of the developmental tasks for older adults facing retirement is managing the shift from a work-centered life to one with potentially more free time. This stage of life, typically referred to as middle adulthood, involves the challenge of finding new ways to experience generativity, which means contributing to society and the development of others. This could include activities like volunteering, mentoring, or engaging in hobbies that can lead to personal growth and satisfaction.

Finding meaning in life doesn't stop after retirement; hence, it's crucial to redefine one's purpose and engagement in social activities. Individuals in their older adult years who are unable to establish these new roles may suffer from a sense of stagnation, leading to feelings of disconnect and lack of productivity.

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