Reframing dependence in old age: a positive transition for families

This article re-evaluates the role of dependence in late-life development using concepts drawn from psychology, sociology, social work, gerontology, and scholarship on women's development. A perspective of old age as a time of continued, positive growth and change is proposed. Dependence is not a marker of decline and deterioration, but a necessary development for mutual growth and enhancement of late-life family reciprocity. Accepting dependence helps an older person maintain his or her competence, autonomy, and self-esteem. The process of dependence as growth promoting is discussed and illustrated with case examples.