Therefore, we will work to understand social attitudes toward aging and the effects these attitudes have on the older population. Chronological age is used to determine Medicare and social security qualifications. Chronological definitions of aging dominate most research because chronological age is easiest to identify, and sixty-five is the age most often used as the beginning of old age. But a caveat is necessary here. Social scientists have developed some useful concepts and perspectives to help us study the interaction between the aging individual and society, but theory remains largely underdeveloped.
Many scholars contend that no comprehensive theoretical framework exists within the field.
The unique situation for older people is their tendency to lose roles rather than acquire new ones. This theory was the first attempt to understand the adjustments of the aged individual. Further, this approach contends that such a withdrawal is functional for society and the aged individual. We will investigate the strengths and weaknesses of these theories and other approaches to the study of aging. Even though you and I probably won't meet face to face, please know that if you need assistance, I am available to help.