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Validation of a Psychosocial Intervention on Body Image in Older People: An Experimental Design
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[What place does old age hold in our society?]
Régis Aubry1, Cynthia Fleury-Perkins2
1CHRU de Besançon, Hôpital Jean Minjoz, 3, boulevard A. Fleming, 25030 Besançon cedex, France.
Soins; La Revue De Reference Infirmiere
|June 27, 2017
Summary
Societal denial and exclusion of elderly individuals highlight a need to re-evaluate perceptions of aging. Addressing ageism and promoting a more positive view of later life is crucial for societal well-being.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Sociology
- Social Psychology
Background:
- Societal attitudes towards aging often involve denial and exclusion.
- Elderly individuals face over-medicalization and sometimes contempt.
- Aging is intrinsically linked to reflections on life's relativity and mortality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the societal perception of aging.
- To identify factors contributing to the negative portrayal of old age.
- To propose strategies for a more positive societal consideration of aging.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative analysis of societal attitudes towards aging.
- Review of literature on ageism and gerontology.
- Exploration of philosophical and sociological perspectives on mortality.
Main Results:
- Societies often exhibit denial regarding aging, leading to exclusion and negative stereotypes.
- The over-medicalization of elderly individuals contributes to their marginalization.
- Confronting mortality through the lens of aging can foster a re-evaluation of life's value.
Conclusions:
- Challenging ageism requires a fundamental shift in societal attitudes.
- Promoting intergenerational understanding can combat exclusion.
- Reframing aging as a natural and valuable life stage is essential for societal progress.
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