In later adulthood, social skills may:

In later adulthood, social skills may become less effective for several reasons related to the changes individuals experience as they age. Cognitive decline, such as difficulties in processing information or recalling names and faces, may impair communication and social interactions. Additionally, physical health issues can limit mobility and opportunities for social engagement, potentially leading to social isolation. Emotional factors, such as the loss of friends or family members, can also affect one's motivation and ability to engage in social situations effectively. These changes can impact a person's overall social skills, making them less effective in navigating social environments.

While it's true that some individuals may maintain or improve their social skills through active engagement and support systems, the general trend observed in many older adults is a decline in effectiveness of these skills due to the aforementioned factors.