Stage 10 developmental task: which is a developmental task?

• A. Coping with physical changes of aging
• B. Developing a psychohistorical perspective
• C. Traveling uncharted territory, life structures of the very old
• D. Maintaining a sense of purpose

Answer: (A)

In late life, a central developmental task is adapting to the physical changes that come with aging. Coping with physical changes of aging is the best answer because it directly addresses how health, strength, and sensory abilities impact daily functioning, independence, and self-esteem. When older adults manage these physical shifts—whether through health maintenance, assistive devices, or safety adjustments—it helps preserve autonomy and quality of life, which is the core challenge of this stage.

The other ideas describe relevant themes and processes, but they’re not the defining, stage-specific task focused on the physical realities of aging. Psychohistorical perspective and exploring “uncharted territory” speak more to broader life understanding or narrative exploration, while maintaining a sense of purpose is important across life, but not the stage’s primary developmental hurdle.