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Changing population demographics require specific knowledge of psychological problems of older adults, whether living at home or in specialized care facilities. While older adults certainly experience many of the same types of difficulties that affect individuals at any age, there are also issues related to retirement or the loss of a long-time partner that may be encountered more frequently in an older population and, therefore, require specialized knowledge and experience. The challenges and rewards of older adulthood can be the basis for continuing growth in this stage of life, and the unique problems of older adulthood can often be resolved through psychological intervention and counseling, as in any other life stage. In addition, questions of problems with cognitive functioning sometimes arise, and such issuies can be assessed through formal psychological testing in conjunction with an individual's medical care.