Gerontologists categorize those over 65 years into which set of 'old' categories?

• A. Young-Old, Middle-Old, Old-Old
• B. Old, Older, Oldest
• C. Young, Middle, Old
• D. Social Security Recipient, Non-Social Security Recipient

Answer: (A)

Gerontologists divide people aged 65 and up into three stages to reflect how health, independence, and daily needs tend to change as people get older. The standard set is young-old, middle-old, and old-old. Typically, young-old covers about 65 to 74, middle-old about 75 to 84, and old-old 85 and up. This framework helps researchers and practitioners tailor care, plan services, and study aging by recognizing that disability risk and care requirements generally rise with age. The other groupings aren’t used because they’re either too broad, not tied to age-related change, or rely on factors like Social Security status rather than the aging process itself.