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[Feminization of old age in Puerto Rico]
1Escuela Graduada de Trabajo Social, Recinto de Río Piedras, Universidad de Puerto Rico. csanche@upracd.upr.clu.edu
Puerto Rico Health Sciences Journal
|June 27, 1998
Summary
Aging disproportionately affects women due to longer life expectancies, presenting unique challenges like sexism and ageism. This article explores these issues and highlights positive aspects of later life for older women.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Sociology
- Gender Studies
Background:
- Women have longer life expectancies than men, leading to a higher proportion of elderly women.
- Aging presents unique challenges and changes that are predominantly experienced by women.
- Older women face compounded discrimination due to both sexism and ageism.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the multifaceted issues faced by women in old age.
- To analyze the impact of discrimination, ageism, poverty, and loneliness on elderly women.
- To explore the positive dimensions of aging for women.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of existing research on women and aging.
- Analysis of social, economic, and health-related challenges specific to older women.
- Qualitative and quantitative data interpretation on gendered aging experiences.
Main Results:
- Elderly women experience significant discrimination and ageism.
- Poverty and loneliness are prevalent issues impacting the well-being of older women.
- Physical and social losses and changes are common, but positive aspects of aging also exist.
Conclusions:
- Aging is fundamentally a women's issue due to demographic and social factors.
- Addressing sexism and ageism is crucial for improving the lives of older women.
- Recognizing and promoting the positive aspects of female aging is essential for holistic well-being.