An odd contradiction occurs in late adulthood, at least from the perspective of those youngsters. On the one hand if you consider what it means to be wise, people will unvaryingly indicate experience. Something of which elders have plenty. On the other hand, this same group of people are often judged critically on other matters, ranging from the ability to drive to being stuck in the past, as in "when I was your age…," or "back in my day…."

Take a moment and try the following: List 5 positive words/adjectives that describe people in their late 60's on up. How long did it take you to think of 5? (You probably used wise, didn't ya?)

Now do the opposite. List 5 negative words/adjectives that describe that same group of people.

Discussion question #1: Was it easier or harder to list the negative words? Why do you think it was easier or harder?

Discussion question #2: Explain why an elderly person would be stuck in the past. Use your knowledge of the different theorists to help guide your thoughts.