We often hear about the eight psychosocial stages of development proposed by the renowned psychologist Erik Erikson, which track human life from infancy to late adulthood. But did you know there’s a proposed ninth stage?
According to some developmental theorists, this stage, known as Gerotranscendence, marks the final and most profound transformation in the aging process. It offers a powerful, positive framework for viewing late life, shifting the focus from decline to spiritual growth and acceptance.
What Exactly is Gerotranscendence?
Gerotranscendence, a concept introduced by gerontologist Lars Tornstam, describes a spiritual and philosophical shift that can occur in very old age.
Instead of viewing aging as a period of inevitable decline or loss, gerotranscendence is about finding wisdom and acceptance in the aging process. It is a dynamic and deeply personal journey of embracing one’s life, finding meaning, and discovering a profound purpose.
In the context of Erikson’s developmental crisis for late adulthood, which is Ego Integrity vs. Despair, gerotranscendence represents a positive and transcendental resolution—it moves beyond mere “integrity” to a state of enlightened connection and peace.
The Path to Achieving Gerotranscendence
The transition to gerotranscendence is achieved through a deep, internal re-evaluation of life. It’s a process where the older person successfully resolves the “crisis of aging” by actively engaging with and accepting their current reality.
Here is how an older person moves toward this transcendent stage:
- Deeper Understanding and Acceptance: They gain a profound understanding of their entire life journey—the triumphs, the mistakes, and the limitations. They accept their full identity as a complete, complex being.
- Active Participation in Decision Making: Having the older person participate in decision-making concerning their own life is crucial for a positive resolution of this life stage. Their voice and agency are respected.
- Embracing Communion: They develop a sense of communion with all things, including a decreased fear of death. This involves feeling more connected to the universe, nature, and past generations.
- The Big Picture: They come to see the disparate pieces of their life fit together like a jigsaw puzzle, giving their history a cohesive, meaningful narrative.
Key Characteristics of a Transcendent Individual
As an individual moves into gerotranscendence, several characteristic changes become apparent. These shifts mark a move away from the materialistic and socially structured life of middle age toward a more internal and selfless existence.
|
Category |
Characteristic |
Description |
|
Self-Focus |
Less Self Occupied |
There is a significant decrease in self-centeredness and preoccupation with personal concerns. |
|
Social Life |
Avoid Social Interaction Deemed Unnecessary |
A shift in the meaning of relationships occurs, often with a greater need for solitude and quiet reflection. They value deep, meaningful connections over superficial social obligations. |
|
Values |
Decreased Interest in Material Things |
The focus shifts from accumulating possessions to appreciating non-material, spiritual aspects of life. |
|
Morality/Purpose |
More Altruistic |
They become more concerned with the welfare of others and the world, often exhibiting more selfless behavior. |
|
Identity |
No ‘Roles’ |
The importance of social and professional roles (e.g., “CEO,” “mother,” “doctor”) fades as they embrace their intrinsic self. |
|
Mortality |
Decreased Fear of Death |
They cultivate a more accepting and peaceful view of mortality, seeing it as a natural part of the greater cycle. |
|
Wisdom |
Accepting ‘Mysteries of Life’ |
They embrace uncertainty and the things that cannot be rationally explained, finding peace in the unknown. |
Gerotranscendence is finding wisdom and peace, not decline, in aging.
We hope this information is helpful to you in the important work you do as a family caregiver.
For more resources, subscribe to our free newsletter!
The post Gerotranscendence: Wisdom in Aging appeared first on Family Caregivers Online.
