Social gerontology theories. 12.3 Sociological Perspectives on Aging 2022-10-29
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Social gerontology is the study of aging and the social, psychological, and cultural aspects of aging. It is an interdisciplinary field that draws on sociology, psychology, anthropology, economics, and other disciplines to understand the social, psychological, and cultural factors that shape the aging process. There are several theories in social gerontology that help to explain how these factors influence the aging process.
One of the main theories in social gerontology is the activity theory, which posits that the key to successful aging is staying active and engaged in meaningful activities. This theory suggests that older adults who continue to participate in social, physical, and intellectual activities are more likely to age well and maintain their cognitive and physical functioning.
Another theory in social gerontology is the disengagement theory, which suggests that as people age, they naturally withdraw from social and work-related activities and become less involved in the world around them. According to this theory, this process of disengagement is a normal and necessary part of the aging process and helps to facilitate the transition to retirement and the later stages of life.
A third theory in social gerontology is the continuity theory, which suggests that older adults tend to maintain their personal identity and values as they age. This theory suggests that older adults are able to adapt to new situations and challenges by drawing on their past experiences and existing skills and resources.
A fourth theory in social gerontology is the socioemotional selectivity theory, which suggests that as people age, they become more selective about the social interactions they engage in and focus more on relationships that are emotionally meaningful to them. This theory suggests that older adults prioritize their social connections and seek out relationships that provide emotional support and fulfillment.
Overall, social gerontology theories help to shed light on the social, psychological, and cultural factors that shape the aging process and provide a framework for understanding how older adults navigate the later stages of life. By considering these theories, we can better understand and support the aging process and ensure that older adults are able to age with dignity and purpose.
12.3 Sociological Perspectives on Aging
Some critics, however, assert that not all older adults have access to such freedom. And as a result, the perspective of society towards us also changes. Continuing with the daily habits or schedule but also changing them according to the current situation is underscored in the continuity theory. Initiatives like these help to keep the elderly section of society socially engaged. Reference Categories My name is Isha Rane. Henry, who noted that disengaging from society after a certain age is normal and acceptable.
Social Gerontology Theories: Past, Present, and Future
Old age is not described as a distinct stage of life, but rather as an integral part of life in which a person continues to fulfill both internal and external roles. Being in a group of people, mostly the same age as them, who are slowly disengaging from their old social roles and embracing new ones also gives a sense of belonging. The main aspect of the disengagement theory, which is common among all societies, is the physical and mental withdrawal from day-to-day activities. Along with that, there are healthcare benefits and policies which are also available for the entire family of an elderly person who is dependent on that person only. Examining the effects of fashion activities on life satisfaction of older females: Activity theory revisited. The elderly is also entitled to free rail rides for seven days every month. Social gerontology: A multidisciplinary perspective 9th ed.
We have seen that social aging and views of the aging process both differ cross-culturally and over time. It includes health workshops to help them make better nutritional choices and social activities like cooking classes, book clubs, open mics or karaoke. In the course of ageing, the body and mind may become less capable of participating in daily activities. In fact, society may suffer if its elderly do disengage, as it loses their insight and wisdom. Their positive perceptions of the aging process are crucial for their ability to remain active. With the help of various theories and approaches of social gerontology, sociologists strive to understand the role played by the elderly in society. What are the effects of aging, especially those which go beyond the biological aspects and effect the social aspects of changing roles, seniority, and treatment of the aged? Also, the external structures, like their relationships and social roles, and their interaction with and participation in society and its events remain constant as per their early lives.
What is Social Gerontology? Scope, Importance, Examples
Various research has proved that regular activities, engaging with people you love, building new relationships and learning new things fight the feeling of isolation and loneliness among the elderly. An elderly population is a boon to any society or economy. The activity theory was developed as a response to the disengagement theory by R. This theory is considered a functionalist explanation of the aging process. Another criticism is that activity theory is too much of an individualistic approach, as it overlooks the barriers many societies place to successful aging.
One of the most common is going for a walk in the park regularly helps one to interact with people of the same age, and build relationships and camaraderie. Conflict theory Older people experience age-based prejudice and discrimination. Even notable scientists have put forward the importance of easy to moderate exercises in the day-to-day lives of the elderly, which can have a favorable impact not only on their health but also on their mental wellness. Some of the major social structures that will be affected by an aging population include the basic family unit, the health system, and the education system. This theory is considered an interactionist explanation of the aging process.
To keep things the same, the elder population believes that continuing their behaviour or habits like their early lives is more important than disengaging or engaging in something new. This theory falls into the more general conflict theory of society. The idea of who am I, is often challenged in old age. Many people have tried to put a label on the trend. Critics — However, the social disengagement theory has also been refuted by many social scientists, psychologists, and sociologists. It is also true that many elders cannot afford to disengage from their previous roles: if they leave their jobs, they are also leaving needed sources of income, and if they leave their jobs and other roles, they also reduce their social interaction and the benefits it brings Hochschild, 1975.
Some elders are less able to remain active because of their poverty, gender, and social class, as these and other structural conditions may adversely affect their physical and mental health. Also, there is a portal called SAGE Seniorcare Ageing Growth Engine which is a one-stop website for the elderly. Since the elderly also require help to do daily things like bathing, eating food and taking medicines, especially those who are suffering from chronic and severe illnesses, nursing homes prove to be their haven. As the field of social gerontology has developed, theories in the field have shown increasing complexity, particularly regarding the roles of early life course experiences, social structural positions, and interpersonal relations in explaining variations in well-being, longevity, and the quality of life across the lifespan. The withdrawal process can be different for people from different backgrounds. Continuity Theory — The continuity theory of ageing in social gerontology proposes that humans are adaptable and comfortable with changes in themselves and society.
Criticism — The theory is criticized because it assumes that continuing with their early life habits is affordable, healthy, and possible for everyone in society. These integrative theories of social gerontology are crucial to developing comprehensive approaches to improving the health and well-being of individuals throughout the life course. Letting go of bad habits or traits is not mentioned in the theory. Explanations of aging grounded in conflict theory put these conditions at the forefront of their analyses. The theory emphasizes that the elderly will face the brunt of ageing with minimal changes in daily routine. And that feeling stays until a new role or goal is adopted by them. The increased concern for this topic has also been fueled by the fact that an older population places new demands on social structures.
It is subsidized by the government, allowing them to remain independent and avoid nursing homes. So that in case of emergencies they can ask for help. Furthermore, it understands the issues of the elderly and looks forward to solving them. A One criticism of conflict theory is that it blames ageism on modern, capitalist economies. After achieving the sense of fulfilling her duties, facing retirement from her job and moving out of her family might be challenging for her until she discovers a new purpose for her life. Furthermore, not all elderly people feel happiness among others, so stating that the activity theory is the only way to attain a happy old age is frequently condemned by critics.
