Key factors that change how older adults see themselves include:

1. Thinking Changes

   • About 15% of adults over 65 have mild issues with memory or thinking, known as mild cognitive impairment (MCI).
   • Nearly 10% of older people face dementia, which makes it hard for them to remember things.

2. Feeling Lonely

   • Around 28% of older adults often feel lonely.
   • Losing a spouse or friends can deeply affect how someone sees themselves. This can happen to up to 50% of older people who are grieving.

3. Health Problems

   • Many older adults have health issues, with 85% dealing with at least one ongoing illness.
   • These health struggles can make them feel less in control of their lives, which changes how they view themselves.

All these factors together shape how older adults see their identities and can influence their mental health.