Social Gerontology: Background
__________________ is the scientific study of aging that examines the biological, psychological, and sociological factors associated with old age and aging.
Gerontology
Give some examples of stereotypes you may see in older adults?
Senile, Grumpy, Set in their Ways, Slow to Accept New Ideas and Learn New Skills
What are the three social roles often taken on in the second half of life?
Retiree, Grandparent, and Caregiver.
True or False: As we age and our health declines, we intentionally distance ourselves from some our relationships.
True. We distance ourselves from relationships because we recognize that relationships should be reciprocal. We let go of these relationships when we no longer have the ability, energy, or resources to exchange support.
______________ can be defined as "intentional or neglectful acts by a caregiver or trusted individual that lead to, or may lead to, harm of a vulnerable elder"
A) Elder Abandonment
B) Elder Neglect
C) Elder Abuse
D) Elder Exploitation
C) Elder Abuse
______________ is a medical term for the study, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases and health problems specific to older adults
A) Gerontology
B) Geriatrics
C) Ageism
D) Pathology
B) Geriatrics
While socially acceptable in some cultures, why does infantilizing older adults (speaking to them as if they were children) carry a negative connotation?
A) It implies that older adults are incapable of understanding complex issues.
B) It devalues personal autonomy and individuality
C) It reflects an outdated view of aging and maturity.
D) It encourages older adults to act younger and more dependent.
B) It devalues personal autonomy and individuality
In the chapter, the social role of being a grandparent is described as a 'booster shot' for some older couples. Why do you think it was described this way?
Being a grandparent is a booster shot that reawakens the early days of marriage and the enthusiasm of early parenting.
Can you explain two reasons why computers, social media, and technology, in general, are increasingly being used by older adults?
- Enhanced Communication
- Entertainment
- Keeping in Touch with Younger Generation
- More Information
- Dating Services
A typical victim of elder abuse is
A) Female and over the age of 75
B) Living alone and lacking a network of social support
C) Has physical or cognitive impairments
D) All of the Above
D) All of the Above
The Disengagement Theory _________________
A) Emphasizes the importance of lifelong learning in aging
B) Proposes that older adults remain socially active to maintain well-being
C) Suggests that aging individuals gradually withdraw from social roles and relationships
D) States that aging has no impact on social interactions
C) Suggests that aging individuals gradually withdraw from social roles and relationships
Which of the following is NOT an ageist term used to devalue an older adult?
A) Geezer
B) Hag
C) Q-Tip
D) Old School
E) All of the Above are Ageist Terms
E) All of the Above are Ageist Terms
Some other terms include: Old Buck, Over the Hill, One foot in the grave, Older than dirt, etc.
What is the primary challenge that older adults commonly face when introduced to a caregiver?
A) Resistance to change due to fear of losing independence
B) Immediate trust and comfort with the caregiver
C) Balancing their need for care while avoiding appearing weak to other family members
D) None of the Above
A) Resistance to change due to fear of losing independence
Couple relationships that have endured into old age have probably experienced and overcome many challenges and crises along the way. What is one of the earliest challenges faced in later life that causes trouble for couples?
Retirement
Retirement is a time of deep soul searching, redefining social roles as individuals, and wondering what the future of the couple relationship will be lile. If a couple can successfully weather the challenges associated with retirement, their feelings for each other can actually become enriched and strengthened.
The participation rate of older individuals in the labor force exceeds that of the entire workforce. What are two reasons older workers may choose to remain in the labor force?
- Financial Gain
- Want to engage in productive pursuits that provide meaning and validation to their lives
The Activity Theory is widely accepted for suggesting that older adults are healthier when they remain engaged in daily life and social interactions. Why do you think it has been criticized?
Critics of this theory suggest that it discriminates against individuals who do not have the resources to remain engaged or the interest in maintaining an active lifestyle.
True or False. Older adults typically prefer living in nursing homes to enhance their ability to interact with others.
False. Older adults generally want to live independently or with family than a nursing home.
Which of the following statements best describe an individualistic approach for an Older Adult in the United States?
A) Older Adults have resources that are pooled with other family resources, which reduces expenses for the older adult.
B) Older Adults are seen in terms of added responsibility, if not burden, to family and society.
C) Both A & B
D) Older Adults are generally free to remain living independently as long as they can afford it and are not placing themselves in danger.
D) Older Adults are generally free to remain living independently as long as they can afford it and are not placing themselves in danger.
In Vietnam - a grandparent shares household authority with the father of the household
In Athabascan Indian culture - older adults are seen as burdens and a drain of resources.
Asian cultures remain collectivistic, meaning they believe family life is central to existence
Social roles and expectations of older adults are often centered on being coupled and having families. How do unmarried individuals or childless couples deal with being deprived of the emotional support of having a family?
A) A niece or nephew can take over the social role of a child or a sibling takes on the traditional role of a spouse
B) They often seek emotional support from close friends and social networks, building alternative forms of social connections.
C) They frequently struggle with mental health issues due to the lack of familial emotional support, and are less likely to seek therapy or professional help.
D) Both A & B
D) Both A & B
What are some examples of work discrimination aganist older adults?
- Passing over qualified older candidates for promotions or new job opportunities in favor of younger employees
- Assuming that they can't adapt to new technology
- Encouraging them to retire early through comments or retirement packages.
The Continuity Theory says that older adults should keep their habits, personality, and lifestyle to promote well-being. Why do you believe this has been criticized?
Critics say the Continuity Theory mainly focuses on
- healthy, wealthy, male experiences
it ignores the challenges faced by
- women, the chronically ill, and those living in poverty.
True or False: Healthcare professionals are more positive in their attitudes towards older patients than they are towards younger patients.
False. Healthcare professionals often have more negative attitudes toward older patients due to factors like frustration, feelings of helplessness from not being able to meet all the patient’s needs, and the constant reminder of their own mortality and life stages
Why is surrogate parenting in late life, where more grandparents are assuming a primary parental role in raising their grandchildren, considered demanding?
- Social Relationships can be difficult with other teachers and parents who are much younger
- On a fixed retirement income
- Balancing personal needs with parenting demands
- Social Stigma attached to the adult child's inability to parent.
True or False: Research indicates that friendships have an even stronger influence on well-being than familial relationships.
True
Research has shown that friendships can have a stronger influence on well-being than familial relationships, particularly in adulthood. While family support is important, friendships are often associated with higher levels of emotional support, social engagement, and personal fulfillment, which contribute significantly to overall well-being.
Self-Neglect is a common form of Elder Abuse where the individual challenges the social norms and values shared by the general population (e.g., not bathing, poor nutrition). What is the correct way to support individuals who self-neglect?
The correct way to support individuals who self-neglect is to still respect their personal autonomy and legal right to live how they choose. If they are competent enough to decide how to live, you must adhere to their wishes regardless of how difficult or frustrating it might be.