The Psychological Difficulties of Adapting to the Aging Process
The Psychological Difficulties of Adapting to the Aging Process

Summary/Abstract: This article is based on clinical observations and will discuss the psychological difficulties of adapting to old age from a psychodynamic perspective. To this end, the first part of this article discusses the normalcy of the aging process. Then, this article will analyze a variety of psychological variables that either disturb or accompany this process such as personality changes, body image, personal and professional fulfillment, satisfaction in relationships, self-esteem, acceptance of changes, and many more. The role of intimacy in old age will be discussed in a separate section, since this is an important element that has a significant impact on an individual’s ability to adjust to the aging process. Among other things, this article also considers such issues as resolving basic intrapsychic conflicts, the ability to draw from one’s inner strength and appeal to the constructive part of oneself, mourning various types of loss, establishing a realistic understanding of one’s self in relation to one’s ideal image of oneself, achieving inner harmony, etc. A cognitive approach will be used to present fundamental references to this topic.

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