Stage 9 developmental task: which is correct?

• A. Accepting one's life
• B. Redirecting energy toward new roles
• C. Promoting intellectual vigor
• D. Developing a point of view about death

Answer: (B)

Stage 9 centers on late adulthood and the need to keep meaning and purpose as the primary work role fades. The best answer reflects actively rechanneling energy into new roles that fit aging life—examples include becoming a grandparent, volunteering, mentoring, or contributing to the community. This shift helps sustain identity, self-worth, and social engagement after retirement. Accepting one’s life is important, but the defining task here is finding and embracing fresh roles. While promoting intellectual vigor and forming views about death are beneficial, they aren’t the central developmental task in this stage.