Theories on Aging
Aging Theories
According to Everitt et al. (2023), aging theories provide insight into biological processes, which can help future social workers and healthcare providers support elderly client populations through evidence-based methods. For example, one of the earliest sociological theories, activity theory (Havighurst & Albrecht, 1953), hypothesized that retirees benefit from remaining active in their communities, staying engaged, and avoiding a sedentary lifestyle. In other words, staying physically and socially active is thought to be essential to health and happiness for older populations. However, activity theory has limitations; critics argue that it does not specify which activities contribute to a satisfying life and that individuals’ choices are often constrained by physical ability, finances, and access to social resources. On the other hand, other researchers have suggested that being active in any form; whether by pursuing hobbies or socializing with friends and family; is beneficial, in contrast to solitary activities (Everitt et al., 2023, Sec. 2.2), (Medical Topics Slideshow., 2020, April 22, 2:37)
Erikson's Stages of Personality Development Theory (1963) suggests that people people progress through eight stages in life, each with its own challenges. When people reach old age (stage 8), they naturally reflecting back over their lives such as what they've accomplished. This stage also involves facing specific challenges, such as creating a meaningful life after retirement, coping with children moving away, and accepting the inevitability of death. When elderly individuals feel proud of their achievements, they may experience a sense of peace and satisfaction, known as "integrity." On the other hand, if they have regrets or feel unfulfilled, they may feel sadness or "despair." Erikson's theory emphasizes that personal growth and reflection continue throughout life, with each stage shaping one's sense of identity and well-being (Everitt et al., 2023, Sec. 2.3)
An example of an elderly person I know who reflects activity theory is my neighbor Cassie, who likes to call herself "the cat whisperer," as my cat and other neighbors' cats love to visit her garden. Despite living alone, she is very independent; I often see her walking around the neighborhood and socializing with other neighbors. She shares with me her participation in local community events, and her warm, gentle spirit is a comfort to be around. This is an example of activity theory, where she chooses to remain active and social despite her solitary lifestyle.
References
- Everitt, T., Davies, M., Wadsworth, L., and Yantha, B. (2023). Chapter 2: Theories of aging. Retrieved from https://caul-cbua.pressbooks.pub/nutritionaging/chapter/why-the-body-ages/
- Medical Topics Slideshow. (2020, April 22). Theories of aging slideshow [Video]. YouTube. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I_FWLjI5o80
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