Psychology of Ageing: Online Learning Quizzes for University Students

Question 1

Which of the following is a key finding from research on cognitive ageing?

Accepted Answer

Fluid intelligence, such as reasoning and problem-solving, declines with age, while crystallized intelligence remains relatively stable.

Answer

Overall cognitive abilities remain stable throughout adulthood.

Answer

Age-related cognitive changes are primarily due to psychological factors, such as reduced motivation and engagement.

Answer

Ageing has a minimal impact on cognitive function, with most older adults experiencing no decline in their cognitive abilities.

Question 2

How does the effectiveness of cognitive training and lifestyle interventions vary in preventing or treating cognitive decline in older adults?

Accepted Answer

The effectiveness depends on factors like the intervention type, duration, and individual characteristics.

Answer

These interventions are consistently effective in preventing cognitive decline.

Answer

These interventions are not effective in treating cognitive decline.

Question 3

How do emotional changes in later life affect the social relationships of older adults?

Accepted Answer

Emotional changes can negatively impact social relationships, leading to fewer interactions and more withdrawal.

Answer

Emotional changes have no impact on social relationships.

Answer

Emotional changes can only have positive impacts on social relationships.

Answer

Emotional changes only impact the number of social relationships, not their quality.

Question 4

How do gender and cultural factors interact to shape the experience and interpretation of cognitive changes in older adults?

Accepted Answer

Culture and gender interact to influence the experience and interpretation.

Answer

Gender has no impact, while culture has a significant influence.

Answer

Gender and culture have no influence.

Answer

Gender and culture have equal influences.

Question 5

How do cultural factors impact the subjective experience of cognitive ageing?

Accepted Answer

Cultural values and beliefs shape perceptions of cognitive changes and the subjective experience of cognitive ageing.

Answer

Cultural factors do not influence cognitive ageing.

Answer

Individualistic cultures experience faster cognitive decline than collectivist cultures.

Question 6

Which personality traits typically increase during ageing?

Accepted Answer

Conscientiousness

Accepted Answer

Agreeableness

Answer

Extroversion

Answer

Neuroticism

Question 7

How does social support affect older adults experiencing cognitive challenges?

Accepted Answer

Social support can mitigate the effects of cognitive decline and promote healthy ageing.

Answer

Social support has no impact on cognitive decline.

Answer

Social support directly improves cognitive function.

Answer

Social support can prevent cognitive decline entirely.

Question 8

How do cognitive changes that occur with ageing impact older adults' ability to perform daily tasks, such as managing finances, navigating transportation, or using technology?

Accepted Answer

Cognitive changes hinder older adults' ability to perform everyday tasks, potentially increasing their reliance on others for assistance.

Answer

Experience and wisdom gained with age generally enhance older adults' ability to perform everyday tasks.

Answer

Cognitive changes related to ageing do not significantly impact older adults' capacity to perform everyday activities.

Answer

Cognitive changes only affect older adults diagnosed with severe dementia, not those with mild cognitive impairment.

Question 9

How do physical health conditions (e.g., heart disease, diabetes) and lifestyle choices (e.g., diet, exercise) interact to shape cognitive aging?

Accepted Answer

Both physical health conditions and lifestyle choices significantly impact cognitive aging.

Answer

Physical health conditions alone determine cognitive aging, with no influence from lifestyle choices.

Answer

Physical health conditions affect cognitive aging, but lifestyle choices have little to no influence.

Question 10

How can technology support cognitive function in older adults?

Accepted Answer

Technology can support cognitive function in older adults by providing opportunities for cognitive stimulation and engagement.

Answer

Technology can completely replace other interventions for cognitive decline in older adults.

Answer

Technology has limited potential to support cognitive function in older adults because they often resist using new technologies.

Answer

Technology has no impact on cognitive function in older adults.

Question 11

How do mindfulness-based interventions promote psychological resilience in older adults?

Accepted Answer

By reducing stress and enhancing emotion regulation abilities.

Answer

By improving cognitive abilities and memory.

Answer

By fostering social engagement and reducing isolation.

Answer

By preventing or eliminating the development of mental health issues.

Question 12

How do interdisciplinary approaches in gerontology benefit researchers and practitioners in gaining a comprehensive understanding of the ageing process?

Accepted Answer

They enable researchers and practitioners to address the complex challenges faced by older adults, resulting in more effective interventions and policies.

Answer

They allow researchers to focus solely on the psychological aspects of ageing, leading to a deeper understanding.

Answer

They are only useful for studying the physical aspects of ageing, such as brain and body changes.

Answer

They are unnecessary for understanding ageing, as each discipline can provide a complete understanding on its own.

Question 13

How does neuroplasticity influence our understanding of cognitive ageing? Explain how this concept sheds light on the brain's capacity to adapt and change over the lifespan.

Accepted Answer

Neuroplasticity provides evidence for the effectiveness of cognitive training programs in enhancing cognitive function in older adults.

Answer

Neuroplasticity suggests that the brain's structure and function are fixed and cannot change with age.

Answer

Neuroplasticity supports the idea that cognitive decline during ageing is an inevitable and irreversible process.

Answer

Neuroplasticity implies that cognitive abilities decline at a consistent and uniform rate throughout the ageing process.

Question 14

How do social and cultural factors influence older adults' perceptions and responses to cognitive changes?

Accepted Answer

Social and cultural factors shape how older adults perceive and respond to cognitive changes, but don't affect the underlying cognitive processes.

Answer

Social and cultural factors have no impact on cognitive ageing.

Answer

Social and cultural factors only affect the perception of cognitive changes, not the changes themselves.

Answer

Social and cultural factors can determine the onset or delay of cognitive decline in older adults.

Question 15

How does resilience contribute to successful aging?

Accepted Answer

Resilience helps older adults maintain a positive outlook and engage in meaningful activities.

Answer

Resilience is a fixed trait that cannot be developed.

Answer

Resilience means bouncing back quickly from setbacks without experiencing negative emotions.

Answer

Resilience has little impact on physical health in later life.

Question 16

How can financial insecurity affect cognitive function in older adults?

Accepted Answer

Financial insecurity can lead to chronic stress, which may impair cognitive function.

Answer

Financial insecurity gives older adults more time for mentally stimulating activities.

Answer

Financial insecurity has no effect on cognitive function in older adults.

Question 17

How does regular physical activity impact cognitive function and the risk of dementia in older adults?

Accepted Answer

Physical activity can enhance cognitive function and lower dementia risk by promoting neuroplasticity, improving blood flow to the brain, and reducing inflammation.

Answer

Physical activity has little effect on cognitive function in older adults.

Answer

While beneficial for cognitive function, physical activity does not impact dementia risk.

Answer

Physical activity only delays cognitive decline in older adults with pre-existing impairment.

Question 18

Which cognitive function typically shows a gradual decline with increasing age?

Accepted Answer

Fluid intelligence

Answer

Crystallized intelligence

Answer

Working memory

Answer

Implicit memory

Question 19

The concept of 'gerotranscendence' refers to:

Accepted Answer

A decline in self-consciousness and an increased focus on the spiritual

Answer

A desire to return to youthful behaviours and experiences

Answer

A fear of death and a preoccupation with mortality

Answer

A rejection of societal norms and values

Question 20

According to Erikson's theory of psychosocial development, the primary challenge faced by older adults is:

Accepted Answer

Integrity vs. despair

Answer

Generativity vs. stagnation

Answer

Intimacy vs. isolation

Answer

Autonomy vs. shame and doubt

Question 21

Which cognitive ability, commonly associated with abstract reasoning and problem-solving, tends to decline with age?

Accepted Answer

Fluid intelligence

Answer

Crystallized intelligence

Answer

Working memory

Answer

Episodic memory

Question 22

Which personality characteristic typically becomes increasingly stable as we age?

Accepted Answer

Conscientiousness

Answer

Neuroticism

Answer

Openness to experience

Answer

Extraversion

Question 23

According to the socioemotional selectivity theory, how do older adults tend to approach emotional experiences?

Accepted Answer

They are more selective in their emotional responses, conserving emotional resources.

Answer

They prioritize positive emotions over negative emotions, focusing on maximizing well-being.

Answer

They experience a decrease in emotional intensity, leading to a more muted emotional life.

Answer

They have a greater capacity for emotional regulation, allowing them to better manage emotions.

Question 24

Which of the following is NOT considered a risk factor for depression in older adulthood?

Accepted Answer

High self-efficacy

Answer

Chronic health conditions

Answer

Lack of social support

Answer

Genetic predisposition

Question 25

Which type of cognitive ability is generally observed to decline with advancing age?

Accepted Answer

Fluid intelligence

Answer

Crystallized intelligence

Answer

Implicit memory

Answer

Procedural knowledge

Question 26

Which emotional experience is commonly prevalent among older adults?

Accepted Answer

Sadness and loss

Answer

Euphoric exuberance

Answer

Uncontrollable anger

Answer

Elevated anxiety

Question 27

What is a common mental health challenge faced by older adults?

Accepted Answer

Depression

Answer

Schizophrenia

Answer

Bipolar disorder

Answer

Avoidant personality disorder

Question 28

According to Socioemotional Selectivity Theory, older adults tend to prioritize relationships with:

Accepted Answer

Close and emotionally positive individuals

Answer

Distant and emotionally negative individuals

Answer

Unfamiliar and novel individuals

Answer

Colleagues and acquaintances

Question 29

According to research, which of the following cognitive abilities typically declines with normal ageing?

Accepted Answer

Processing speed

Answer

Crystallized intelligence

Answer

Emotional regulation

Answer

Social cognition

Question 30

Which of the following is a protective factor that can enhance psychological resilience in later life?

Accepted Answer

Strong social support network

Answer

Social isolation

Answer

Chronic stress

Answer

Financial instability

Question 31

What is the term for the gradual decline in cognitive abilities that is associated with normal ageing?

Accepted Answer

Age-related cognitive decline

Answer

Dementia

Answer

Alzheimer's disease

Answer

Cognitive impairment

Question 32

According to Erik Erikson's theory of personality development, which stage is typically associated with late adulthood?

Accepted Answer

Integrity vs. Despair

Answer

Intimacy vs. Isolation

Answer

Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt

Answer

Generativity vs. Stagnation

Question 33

Which common mental health concern disproportionately affects older adults?

Accepted Answer

Depression

Answer

Anxiety disorders

Answer

Schizophrenia

Answer

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Question 34

Which of the following is considered a positive stereotype about ageing?

Accepted Answer

Older adults possess wisdom and experience

Answer

Older adults are more likely to be lonely

Answer

Older adults are less productive

Answer

Older adults are more forgetful

Question 35

Which ethical principle is particularly important in research involving older adults?

Accepted Answer

Respect for autonomy

Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Justice

Answer

Non-maleficence

Question 36

Based on the socioemotional selectivity theory, older adults tend to:

Accepted Answer

Prefer familiar and meaningful social interactions

Answer

Become more withdrawn and isolated

Answer

Seek out novel and exciting experiences

Answer

Experience an increase in social network size

Question 37

Which personality trait generally shows an increase with age?

Accepted Answer

Agreeableness

Answer

Neuroticism

Answer

Extroversion

Answer

Openness to experience

Question 38

Semi-structured interviews are commonly used in ageing studies because they allow:

Accepted Answer

In-depth exploration of personal experiences

Answer

Precise measurement of quantitative data

Answer

Large sample sizes

Answer

Objectivity and generalizability

Question 39

The 'active ageing' concept advocates for:

Accepted Answer

Maintaining physical, cognitive, and social engagement

Answer

Retirement and leisure as primary goals

Answer

Age-segregated communities

Answer

Focusing solely on physical health

Question 40

According to the 'continuity theory' of ageing, personality:

Accepted Answer

Remains relatively consistent throughout life

Answer

Is shaped primarily by early life experiences

Answer

Is highly influenced by social and environmental factors

Answer

Undergoes significant changes in later life

Question 41

Which of the following personality traits is commonly associated with optimal ageing?

Accepted Answer

Conscientiousness and openness to experience

Answer

Neuroticism and extraversion

Answer

Introversion and agreeableness

Answer

Impulsivity and sensation-seeking

Question 42

Which strategy has been shown to enhance resilience in older adults?

Accepted Answer

Engaging in fulfilling activities and hobbies

Answer

Isolating oneself from social interactions

Answer

Constantly worrying about the future

Answer

Avoiding physical activity and exercise

Question 43

Which socioemotional theory proposes that older adults prioritize maintaining close relationships?

Accepted Answer

Socioemotional selectivity theory

Answer

Selective optimization with compensation theory

Answer

Activity theory

Answer

Disengagement theory

Question 44

Which term refers to the gradual decline in cognitive abilities associated with ageing?

Accepted Answer

Cognitive decline

Answer

Age-related memory loss

Answer

Presbyopia

Answer

Senile dementia

Question 45

Which emotion is commonly experienced by older adults as they reflect on their past?

Accepted Answer

Nostalgia

Answer

Guilt

Answer

Anger

Answer

Envy

Question 46

Which of the following is NOT a cognitive domain explored in the 'Psychological Aspects of Ageing' unit?

Accepted Answer

Motor Skills

Answer

Cognitive Flexibility

Answer

Memory

Answer

Language

Question 47

According to the 'socioemotional selectivity theory,' as people age, they:

Accepted Answer

Become more selective in their social interactions and prioritize meaningful relationships

Answer

Spend less time on emotionally negative experiences

Answer

Experience a decline in emotional regulation abilities

Answer

Focus more on acquiring new social connections

Question 48

The 'biopsychosocial model of ageing' primarily emphasizes:

Accepted Answer

The interconnectedness of biological, psychological, and social factors influencing the ageing process

Answer

The significance of genetics in determining longevity

Answer

The inevitability of cognitive impairment in later adulthood

Answer

Ageing as a purely psychological phenomenon

Question 49

The 'memory paradox' in ageing suggests that:

Accepted Answer

Older adults demonstrate better recall of recent events compared to distant memories

Answer

Memory decline is an inevitable consequence of ageing

Answer

Older adults tend to underestimate their memory abilities

Answer

Memory functioning remains stable throughout adulthood

Question 50

In later life, how do social relationships influence cognitive function? Discuss the role of social support and engagement in shaping cognitive outcomes.

Accepted Answer

Social support and engagement can buffer against cognitive decline and enhance cognitive outcomes.

Answer

Social relationships have a negligible effect on cognitive function in later life.

Answer

Cognitive function in later life is largely determined by genetics and is unaffected by social factors.

Question 51

Which emotional experience is often associated with ageing?

Accepted Answer

Feeling of nostalgia

Answer

Increased optimism

Answer

Greater sense of purpose

Answer

Reduced anxiety and depression

Question 52

Which of the following is considered a key aspect of personality development in later life?

Accepted Answer

Increased conscientiousness

Answer

Decreased agreeableness

Answer

Improved interpersonal skills

Answer

Increased openness to new experiences

Question 53

Which mental health condition is more prevalent in older adults?

Accepted Answer

Mood disorders

Answer

Anxiety disorders

Answer

Schizophrenia

Answer

Personality disorders

Question 54

Which research method is particularly suitable for studying the psychological ageing process over time?

Accepted Answer

Longitudinal studies

Answer

Cross-sectional studies

Answer

Case studies

Answer

Experimental studies

Question 55

Which emotional experience is typically associated with successful ageing?

Accepted Answer

Greater emotional stability

Answer

Increased anxiety

Answer

Lower self-esteem

Answer

More intense negative emotions

Question 56

Which of the following is a common mental health issue in older adults?

Accepted Answer

Depression

Answer

Schizophrenia

Answer

Bipolar disorder

Answer

Autism

Question 57

Which strategy is recommended for maintaining psychological resilience in later life?

Accepted Answer

Challenging negative thoughts and emotions

Answer

Isolating oneself from social connections

Answer

Engaging in physically demanding activities

Answer

Focusing on past achievements

Question 58

Which neurotransmitter has been linked to cognitive decline in older adults?

Accepted Answer

Acetylcholine

Answer

Dopamine

Answer

Serotonin

Answer

Endorphin

Question 59

Which theory suggests that ageing is caused by the accumulation of cellular damage?

Accepted Answer

Free Radical Theory

Answer

Disengagement Theory

Answer

Activity Theory

Answer

Socioemotional Selectivity Theory

Question 60

Which research method is commonly used to study psychological changes in older adults over time?

Accepted Answer

Longitudinal studies

Answer

Cross-sectional studies

Answer

Case studies

Answer

Randomized controlled trials

Question 61

Which interdisciplinary field focuses on the study of ageing from a social and behavioural perspective?

Accepted Answer

Gerontology

Answer

Sociology

Answer

Psychology

Answer

Demography

Question 62

Which of the following is NOT a domain of cognitive functioning that typically declines with age?

Accepted Answer

Emotional regulation

Answer

Processing speed

Answer

Working memory

Answer

Long-term memory

Question 63

Which of the following is a characteristic of the five-factor model of personality?

Accepted Answer

Personality traits remain stable throughout adulthood

Answer

Extroversion and neuroticism increase with age

Answer

Conscientiousness and agreeableness decrease with age

Answer

Personality traits are immutable and unchangeable

Question 64

Cognitive reserve refers to:

Accepted Answer

The brain's ability to withstand age-related cognitive decline

Answer

The amount of cognitive functioning that an individual has

Answer

The rate of cognitive decline

Answer

The link between education and cognitive function