[Critical Gerontology : An orientation]

Area of Science:

• Social Gerontology
• Critical Theory

Context:

• Critical gerontology has been underexplored in German-language aging research.
• This field aims to understand and challenge ageism and societal structures impacting older adults.

Purpose:

• To trace the historical development of critical gerontology approaches.
• To analyze the concept of critique within critical gerontology.
• To clarify the social theoretical foundations and distinctiveness of critical gerontology.

Summary:

• The study examines various critical gerontology approaches, noting their shared goal of older adult emancipation and autonomy.
• Significant differences exist in their understanding of critique and scientific theory status.
• The specific perspective distinguishing critical gerontology from other social gerontological approaches remains unclear.

Impact:

• Proposes four criteria for critical gerontology to fulfill.
• Aims to refine the theoretical and practical application of critical gerontology.
• Contributes to a more defined understanding of critical perspectives in aging studies.