Middle adulthood (or midlife) refers to the period of the lifespan between young adulthood and old age. This period lasts from 20 to 40 years depending on how these stages, ages, and tasks are culturally defined. The most common age definition is from 40 to 65, but there can be a range of up to 10 years (ages 30-75) on either side of these numbers. The mid-thirtiesor the forties through the late 60s can be our guide. Research on this period of life is relatively new and many aspects of midlife are still being explored.This may be the least studied period of the lifespan. And this is a varied group. We can see considerable differences in individuals within this developmental stage. There is much to learn about this group. In the United States, the large Baby Boom cohort (those born between 1946 and 1964) are now midlife adults and thishas led to increased interest in this developmental stage.

Imagine that you are training others to work with people who are terminally ill or in grief.Advise your group about how to work most effectively with those populations.