Physical development across the human lifespan
Infancy (0-2 Years)
- At birth, reflexes such as grasping and rooting are present.
- Rapid physical growth and development occur, including gross motor skills such as crawling and walking.
- Fine motor skills begin to develop, like picking up objects between the thumb and finger.
- By two years, most children have developed a set of primary, or 'baby,' teeth.
Early Childhood (2-8 Years)
- Physical growth is more gradual during this stage but remains steady.
- Fine motor skills improve. Children can hold pencils, colour, and eventually learn to write.
- Gross motor skills develop, including the ability to run, jump, and climb.
- Generally, all primary teeth have fully emerged by this stage.
Adolescence (9-18 Years)
- Puberty begins, leading to reproductive maturity and significant changes in height and weight.
- Secondary sexual characteristics, such as menstrual cycles in girls and vocal deepening in boys, appear.
- There may be substantial growth spurts, especially in early adolescence.
Adulthood (19-65 Years)
- Physical development stabilises, and adults maintain capabilities for many years.
- Changes largely related to ageing, such as wrinkles or greying hair, can start to appear.
- For women, menopause usually occurs between the ages of 45-55 years, ending fertility.
- Gradual loss of sensory acuity may begin, such as slight hard of hearing or needing glasses for reading.
Old Age (65+ Years)
- Continued ageing affects physical abilities. Strength, stamina, and sensory acuity often decline.
- Increased risk of health conditions like arthritis, heart disease, or dementia.
- Bone density reduces leading to a risk of fractures.
- Mobility can be affected by these changes, potentially requiring aids like hearing aids, glasses, or walking aids.