Discuss abstract problem-solving ability among people in the late adulthood phase of life.

Answers will vary. Research suggests that for the vast majority of older adults, abstract problem-solving ability, as in complex math problems, is not related to their quality of life. "Real-world" or everyday problem-solving skills are usually of greater concern. Moreover, when older adults encounter interpersonal conflicts, they tend to regulate their emotional responses differently from young and middle-aged adults. Whereas the younger groups are relatively more likely to express feelings of anger or frustration, to seek support from other people, or to solve interpersonal problems, the older adults are more likely to focus on remaining calm and unperturbed. The difference appears to be partially due to older adults' decreased tendency to express anger and increased priority on regulating emotion.