Final answer:
Martha's active, alert, and capable lifestyle fits the "active aging" subtype. She exemplifies an individual who engages in various activities and remains socially involved, challenging traditional stereotypes of older adults. Her attributes are consistent with activity and continuity theories, promoting a positive and healthy approach to aging.
Step-by-step explanation:
The subtype that best describes Martha, who is an active, alert, capable, healthy, and sexually active older adult, can be encapsulated by the concept of the "active aging" subtype. This concept is part of the broader sociological study of aging and challenges traditional stereotypes of older adults as being inactive or disengaged. Instead, Martha exemplifies an individual embracing life's opportunities beyond retirement, maintaining physical, social, and cognitive activities that contribute to her well-being.
Contemporary theories on aging such as activity theory, continuity theory, and disengagement theory offer different perspectives on how individuals adapt to older adulthood. Activity theory suggests that maintaining a high level of activity and social engagement is beneficial and encourages well-being in older age. Continuity theory posits that older adults will be more satisfied if they maintain consistency with their past experiences and activities. Disengagement theory, on the other hand, claims that withdrawing from societal roles is a natural and acceptable part of aging.
Despite these theories, it is important to recognize the individuality of aging experiences. The stereotype of the inactive, disengaged older person does not account for the diversity of lifestyle choices and capacities among older adults. Martha's engaged lifestyle supports the view of active aging and aligns with the positive sides of activity and continuity theories. Aging individuals like Martha often seek out opportunities to remain physically, socially, and intellectually active, thereby enriching their lives and defying dated stereotypes.
According to Marshall and Katz's research on "Forever Functional: Sexual Fitness and the Aging Male Body," society's views on sexual activity in older adults are also evolving, with greater recognition that sexuality remains an important aspect of life for many aging individuals. In this broader context, Martha's attributes demonstrate a rejection of antiquated views of older adulthood and align with contemporary understandings of healthy aging.