Introduction
People aged 65 and over comprise a very diverse population, with some reporting excellent health, prosperity, and contentment, while others experience poverty, physical impairment, and loneliness. Youth and middle-life experiences influence the rate of aging. Similar to other developed economies, the United States’ citizenry is aging far more quickly than in less developed countries (Giddens et al., 2020). A decrease in fatality and a longer life duration have been widely observed worldwide due to modern farming, sanitation facilities, disease management, enhanced nourishment, and medication. In every nation, biological, psychological, and social factors all play a role in aging (Giddens et al., 2020). Thus, aging is influenced by a manifold of biological factors such as genes and quality of life alongside psychological and social components related to culture and values.
Discussion
Aging can be analyzed using generations ranging from the first to the third utilizing the disengagement theory. The disengagement theory contends that society benefits when elderly individuals are removed from their customary duties. Disengagement is seen to be useful for older individuals because it allows them to put their energy into more personal, contemplative pursuits rather than somewhat burdensome social obligations (Giddens et al., 2020). Disengagement meant letting the elderly population focus more on themselves, which is directly related to concern as they will almost definitely pass away soon, to put it another way. The second generation includes conflict theories that contend unequal chances which can lead to conflict. This point of view contends that social institutions’ operations structurally contribute to several aging-related issues, including poverty, ill health, and poor treatment. Third, a life course includes various transitions and experiences throughout one’s life.
What is of significant concern in the aged persons is the poverty levels, which are linked to government-sponsored initiatives. Conflict theories of longevity strongly emphasize how structural characteristics, such as status, sex, and profession, affect how people in various cultural circles perceive old age (Giddens et al., 2020). Many conflict theories use the undervaluation of the aged in capitalist society as an example of how the old are disadvantaged. Despite the many connections between relational and psychological loneliness, the two are distinct ideas that are independently felt by the elderly (Giddens et al., 2020). The quality of life and poverty levels are positively related to aging since it is interconnected with psychological and relational well-being.
American society has significant importance on youth, as shown by the overwhelmingly high frequency of images of youthful attractiveness and vigor. This results in the repudiation of aging as unpleasant, a reflection of mortality, and a symbol of the lack of all that is valued socially. Though it may not directly cause it, young people’s preference over older people is a result of the quick speed of technological improvement. As more Americans retire and lead extended lives after retiring, systems like Social Security and Medicare would cost more; additionally, the demographic segment contributing to Social Security is decreasing (Giddens et al., 2020). There will not be sufficient employees in a few years to come to cover the pensions that retirees need.
Conclusion
Ultimately, aging is determined by various biological, psychological, and social factors. The disengagement theory is practical in breaking down the challenge of aging by highlighting ways aging can be mitigated using personal, contemplative, and social approaches. Poverty levels, quality of life, and social networks decide life experience and satisfaction, hence aging.
Reference
Giddens, A., Applebaum, R. P., & Carr, D. (2020). Chapter 12: Aging. In M. Duneier (Ed.), Introduction to Sociology (Seagull Twelfth Edition, pp. 417–452). essay, W. W. Norton & Company.