The Role of Subjective Aging Within the Changing Ecologies of Aging: Perspectives for Research and Practice

Abstract

The negative conceptualization of aging pervades most societies and can be seen implicitly and explicitly across many levels and contexts of society. However, there is substantial theoretical and empirical evidence to argue that a more realistic and constructive view of aging acknowledges both positive and negative changes as people grow old. In this chapter, we explore possible implications of the negative conceptualizations of aging at different bioecological levels. Then, in light of a growing body of evidence suggesting that negative views on aging have harmful effects for individuals and societies, we discuss challenges and potentials for transforming such views at the different bioecological levels to a more accurate representation of older age. Finally, we present a life-span oriented framework, which illustrates several potential avenues for research and practice at different bioecological levels, considering all points along the developmental chronosystem. ANNUAL REVIEW OF GERONTOLOGY AND GERIATRICS

Training Younger Volunteers to Promote Technology Use Among Older Adults

“…According to Miche et al. (), the impact of negative conceptualizations of aging is well documented. As a result, interventions are needed to improve individual views on aging at every stage of life.…”

“…Miche et al. () used Bioecological framework to conceptualize how “subjective aging variables, such as age stereotypes and perceptions, are held, influenced, and perpetuated by individuals, interactions between individuals, and by societies” (p. 214). Within this framework, views on aging contributed to individual outcomes.…”

“…First, Miche et al. () suggest how younger people interact with older adults may influence older adults’ perceptions of their abilities to learn and use technology. For example, if an older adult struggles to master a technology skill, the younger person may attribute it to the person's age.…”

“…However, older nonusers and users have diverse abilities and distinct characteristics (Smith, 2014). Beyond individual characteristics, rate of innovation, usability, gerontological literacy, and subjective aging may impact the adoption of technology among older adults (Barnard et al, 2013;Levy, 2016;Marshall, 2014;Miche, Brothers, Diehl, & Wahl, 2015;Schulz et al, 2015;Smith, 2014). Ecological systems theory suggests these factors do not develop in a vacuum.…”

“…Of particular relevance to efforts to promote technology use through intergenerational programming is subjective aging. Subjective aging refers to how aging is interpreted and constructed by society and individuals (Miche et al, 2015). According to Miche et al (2015), the impact of negative conceptualizations of aging is well documented.…”