Social Gerontology: An Introduction

Introduction to Social Gerontology

• Social gerontology is a gerontology subfield focusing on social aspects of aging and how it impacts individuals and cultures.
• Gerontologists study aging and its effects on societies and individuals.
• The terms "young" and "old' are social constructs and differences exist across cultures.

Cultural Perspectives on Aging

• Age values vary across countries, with Eastern cultures revering elders and Western cultures prioritizing youth.
• In Japan, children are expected to care for aging parents, reflecting familial responsibility.
• The nations of Lesotho and Chad show that age notions vary, impacting expectations and social roles.

Types of Aging

• Chronological aging is the number of years a person has lived.
• Functional aging is based on the ability to perform major life roles.
• Subjective age identity is how individuals perceive their age.

Age Norms and Social Roles

• Age norms are socially constructed expectations for behavior at different ages.
• Social roles are defined expectations based on age, such as retiree or grandparent.
• Age differentiation socializes individuals to behave according to chronological age, leading to stereotypes.

Theories of Aging

• Aging theories are categorized into individual (micro-level) and societal (macro-level) perspectives.
• Key individual theories include disengagement, activity, and continuity theories.
• Macro-level theories address societal influences on aging, including modernization and age stratification.
• Theories of power and inequality explore societal structures impact aging experiences.

Disengagement Theory

• Elaine Cumming and William Henry proposed this theory and the argument is aging involves a natural withdrawal from social interactions.
• Individuals reduce roles and interactions to avoid disrupting social systems.
• It is not universally applicable, as seen in cultures where elder individuals hold significant leadership roles.

Activity Theory

• Older adult activity levels are positively correlated with life satisfaction.
• Older adults should stay engaged in social activities to age successfully.
• It dismisses socioeconomic status & personality traits as factors affection life satisfaction.

Continuity Theory

• Robert Atchley's theory builds on activity theory, and says that personality is important in adapting to aging.
• Adult development is continuous, where individuals maintain established behavior patterns.
• One criticism is the theory is male-centric and does not account for women's experiences.

Subculture and Exchange Theories

• Older adults form a subculture based on shared interests, fostering relationships.
• Social interactions are based on rational calculations to maximize benefits and minimize costs.
• Both theories oversimplify the complexities of social interactions.

Macro-Level Theories of Aging

• Modernization theory examines how industrialization influences aging and modernization leads to better healthcare & longer life expectancy.
• Developed countries provide better aging conditions than less developed nations.
• It focuses too much on the status of older adults without considering individual experiences.

Age Stratification and Integration Theories

• Society is divided into age groups with distinct characteristics, but the theory is considered too broad and static.
• Societies have both age-segregated and age-integrated institutions that promote or hinder older adult participation.
• These theories often overlook the dynamic nature of age and its social implications.

Political Economy Theories

• Aging is socially constructed through power dynamics and public policies affect older adults.
• Emphasizes structural influences and power relationships in defining treatment of elders.
• Ignores individual agency and the personal motivations of older adults.

Theoretical Frameworks in Aging Studies

• Traditional theories often dismiss individual actors, their motivations, and activities, leading to a generalized view of aging.
• Critics say these theories portray older adults as passive.

Feminist Theories of Aging

• Feminist theory argues the life course is gendered, affecting women during working years and motherhood.
• Masculinity and femininity are socially constructed, influencing societal expectations and roles.
• Feminist theories sometimes fail to consider age structures and the diversity of women's experiences.

Critical Gerontology

• Contemporary approach that examines how globalization impacts policies and programs for older adults.
• It emphasizes research that considers the socio-political context of aging.
• Lacks established models, which hinders practical application.

Understanding Ageism

• Ageism is stereotyping and discrimination based on age, similar to racism and sexism.
• Encompasses stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination towards older adults.
• Common stereotypes include misconceptions about older adults' abilities.

Dimensions and Impact of Ageism

• Ageism impacts health outcomes, including depression and social isolation.
• It frames older individuals as a homogenous group, ignoring their diversity.
• The economic toll of ageism affects individuals and society.

Reframing Language and Perspectives

• Neutral and inclusive language is essential in combating ageism.
• Ageism is a social problem that requires collective action.
• Understanding ageism as a prejudice against our future selves can foster empathy.

Demographics and Trends in Aging

• Demography studies population processes like birth, death, and migration.
• The demographic transition describes the shift from high to low fertility, impacting population aging.
• Key terms include life span, life expectancy, and dependency ratio.

Population Aging in the U.S.

• In 2022, around 57.8 million Americans aged 65+, representing 17.3% of the population.
• The number of older Americans is projected to increase by 34% by 2040, reaching 78.3 million.
• Population pyramids illustrate the age and sex distribution.

Stages of Demographic Transition

• Stage 1: High birth and death rates in agrarian societies, leading to a young population.
• Stage 2: Decline in death rates due to improved healthcare, resulting in a growing older population.
• Stage 3: Aging population with chronic illnesses becoming more prevalent.
• Stage 4: Low birth and death rates in developed economies, characterized by high education and advanced healthcare.

Psychological Aspects of Aging

• Cognitive psychology examines mental processes and how they change with age.
• Age-related changes can lead to issues such as depression, loneliness, and social isolation.

Loneliness and Its Implications

• Loneliness can impact health outcomes and increase disease risk.
• Recognizing the signs of loneliness and isolation in older adults is essential.

Dementia and Cognitive Disorders

• Dementia is an umbrella term for cognitive decline symptoms.
• Alzheimer's disease is a specific illness causing these symptoms.
• Differentiating dementia types is vital for effective treatment and support.
• Conditions like depression and vitamin deficiencies can mimic dementia.

Understanding Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease

• Alzheimer's disease was identified by Dr. Alois Alzheimer in 1907.
• It is a degenerative brain disease, symptoms include depression, confusion, and communication difficulty.
• Impacts people and also has societal implications, necessitating more aid & research.

Overview of Alzheimer's Disease

• Person-centered approach to managing dementia is crucial & helps people understand individual needs.
• Disruptive behaviors in dementia patients often indicate unmet needs.

Epidemiological Transition and Aging

• The epidemiological transition refers to changes in health patterns as individuals age.
• Autonomy and social roles evolve, impacting the well-being of older adults.
• A shift in health concerns requires healthcare strategies to be reevaluated.

Social Support Systems and Their Impact

• Social support systems are networks that provide emotional/instrumental support.
• Women typically have more extensive support networks than men.

Types of Social Support Networks

• Diverse network: Extensive ties to family, friends, and community organizations.
• Family-centered networks: Focused on immediate family members.
• Friend-centered networks: Emphasizes interactions with friends.
• Restricted networks: Limited social ties with infrequent contact.

Changing Family Structures and Their Implications

• Extended family structures are becoming common due to increased life expectancy.
• Verticalization refers to growing linkages between generations, called 'Bean Pole Families'.
• Older women are more likely to be single, with a significant percentage widowed.

Types of grandparenting

• Remote: Symbolic and infrequent relationships with grandchildren.
• Companion: Friendly and easy-going interactions.
• Involved: Active roles in raising grandchildren, often akin to parenting.

Blue Zones and Longevity

• Blue Zones are regions where people experience low rates of chronic diseases and high longevity.
• Blue zone exist due to social cohesion and belonging which are enhanced in communities.

Characteristics of Blue Zones

• Natural Movement: physical activity is incorporated into daily life.
• Purpose: Having a clear sense of purpose contributes to longevity.
• Down Shift: Practices that reduce stress and promote relaxation.
• 80% Rule: Eating until 80% full to maintain a healthy weight.
• Plant Slant: Diets rich in plant-based foods.
• Wine at 5: Moderate alcohol consumption in social settings.
• Family First: Prioritizing family and social connections.
• Belonging: Being part of a supportive community.

Impact of Blue Zones on Society

• Lifestyle choices observed in Blue Zones can significantly impact cultural norms and community health.
• Social cohesion and belonging are enhanced in communities that adopt Blue Zone principles.
• Communities can achieve optimal health outcomes by fostering environments that support healthy aging.
• The model informs public health initiatives aimed at increasing longevity and quality of life.

Demographic Transition and Aging

• The demographic transition model outlines changes in population dynamics.
• Key features include 5 stages, from high birth/death rates to low/declining rates.
• Resources and services for aging populations can be planned with aid of understanding these stages.
• The dependency ratio and population pyramids are tools for visualizing demographic changes.