Discuss activity theory.

Answers will vary. Activity theory states, in contrast to disengagement theory, that older adults are better adjusted when they are more active and involved in physical and social activities. Activity theory places many of the barriers to such activity in social attitudes such as beliefs that older people should "take it easy," and in structural matters such as forced retirement, without regard to the desires of the individual. Research shows that physical activity is associated with a lower mortality rate in late adulthood. Leisure and informal social activities contribute to life satisfaction among retired people. An Israeli study found particular benefits for life satisfaction in activities involving the next generation, the visual and performing arts, and spiritual and religious matters. However, there was also value in independent activities in the home.