In the final stage of Ego Integrity vs Despair, what is the main task for older adults?

In the final stage of Ego Integrity vs Despair, the primary task for older adults is to reflect on their lives and achieve a sense of fulfillment. This involves looking back at their experiences, accomplishments, and the choices they have made throughout their life. Older adults may evaluate whether they have lived a meaningful and satisfying life or, conversely, feel regret over unfulfilled goals and missed opportunities, leading to feelings of despair.

Successfully achieving ego integrity allows individuals to develop a sense of peace and acceptance about their life, which contributes significantly to their overall well-being in later years. This reflective process is crucial for fostering a positive self-image and can influence their outlook on aging and the end of life. Therefore, the focus on finding fulfillment through life reflection is essential in this stage of development.