theory
broad explanation that provides a structure for organizing and interpreting a multitude of observable phenomena and their relationships to one another (Hagestad & Dannefer, 2001)
Key words in publications/research on aging
healthy or successful aging
frailty
more recently, healthy or successful aging has been a stronger hit than frailty when they used to be on par/level with each other
elements of successful aging
key domains in aging
physiological (highest emphasis) - physical functioning, cognitive function, illness/disease descending emphasis: well being engagement personal resources extrinsic factors
Disengagement theory
critiques/countering disengagement theory
greater activity/engagement and greater life satisfaction and well-being
disengagement not inevitable
disengagement has risk factors
activity theory
successful aging = active aging
continuity theory
came out in the late 80s - adaptive strategy: personality activities relationships
role theory
role theory – role transformations
symbolic interaction perspective
interactions between individuals and their environment
social exchange theory
if an older person perceives that their contributions are no longer valued by others they may begin to withdraw from participating in social activities
consider: value of nonmaterial resources (e.g. love wisdom time)
- deferred exchange
social phenomenology of Aging
aging influence by social definitions and social structures
create socail reality for themselves and others
arise out of negotion
modernization theory
premise: decline in status of the aged
- health technology
- economic technology
Caveats modernization theory
development theory of aging (stages)
infant toddler –> older adult
Erik Erikson - stages of psychosocial development
development of individual through various levels, each stage being necessary for adaptation and for psychological adjustment
ego over the life course
generativity
7th stage of psychosocial development in Erikson’s model; caring for and mentoring younger generations, looking toward the future, and not stagnating in the past
Erikson’s Stage theory problems
broad generalizations
cross-cultural valididty
life course theory
social support networks composition (who)
family friends co-workers, schoolmates acquaintances neighbors social groups/orgs
characteristics of social networks
# of ties diversity of ties frequency of interaction
social integration
emotional support
expression of empathy, caring, concern, love
instrumental support
provision of direct assistance or care (transportation, shopping, cooking, cleaning, gardening, house repair)