Final answer:
Physical prowess generally declines gradually during middle adulthood, though individual experiences can vary. Engaging in an active lifestyle with proper exercise and nutrition can help minimize physical declines. Cognitive abilities often remain stable throughout middle adulthood, with crystallized intelligence sometimes showing improvement.
Step-by-step explanation:
Physical Prowess in Middle Adulthood
In middle adulthood, which lasts from about the mid-30s to the mid-60s, individuals tend to experience a gradual decline in physical prowess. This period is characterized by visible physical signs of aging such as wrinkles and gray hair as well as declines in vision, strength, aerobic performance, maximal heart rate, and reaction time. Moreover, conditions such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases often emerge during this stage. While there is individual variation, making sweeping generalizations about physical ability is difficult as many factors including lifestyle, genetics, and overall health play a role. However, studies suggest that maintaining an active lifestyle with proper exercise and nutrition can help minimize physical declines (Figure 9.18).
Contrary to our physical capabilities, our cognitive abilities, particularly crystallized intelligence, generally remain stable or even improve throughout middle adulthood. It is in later adulthood that notable cognitive declines typically occur. Nevertheless, both mental and physical activities are shown to be beneficial in delaying the onset of both physical and cognitive decline.