According to Erikson, what might indicate an elderly person fears death?

In Erikson's theory of psychosocial development, particularly during the later stage of life known as "Ego Integrity vs. Despair," the focus is on reflecting upon one's life. An elderly person who experiences significant regrets about past decisions may indicate a fear of death, as these regrets can lead to feelings of despair and dissatisfaction. Such feelings can stem from unresolved conflicts or a sense that one has not lived authentically, leading to anxiety when faced with the end of life.

In contrast, fulfillment with life experiences, contentment with one's legacy, and strong family connections generally suggest a sense of peace and acceptance, which aligns with achieving ego integrity. These states of being are more likely to correspond with a readiness to face death, rather than the fear associated with unresolved regrets. Thus, having regrets about past decisions is an indicator of potential fear of death, as it reflects a lack of acceptance and closure in one's life narrative.