The Social Context of Ageing

by Victor; Christina

• ISBN13: 9780415221399
• ISBN10: 0415221390
• eBook ISBN(s): 9781134598182
• Edition: 1st
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2005-06-06
• Publisher: Routledge
• More Book Details

Summary

Why do some people live to an advanced old age while others do not? And what does old age really mean in modern society? Gerontology is a multi-disciplinary science concerned with the study of aging, which integrates biological, psychological and social study. This book focuses on the social contexts of aging, looking at the diversity of aging and older people, and at different factors that are important to experiences of old age and aging. This comprehensive text includes chapters on: theoretical and methodological bases for the study of aging demographic context of the 'aging' population health and illness family and social networks formal and informal care and other services for older people. The book provides an invaluable introduction to the major issues involved in the study of aging and is essential reading for students of sociology, gerontology, social policy, health and social care, and professionals working with older people.

Author Biography

Christina Victor is currently Professor of Gerontology and Health Services Research, Head of School of Health and Social Care, University of Reading.

Table of Contents

List of illustrations	vi
Acknowledgements	ix
The social perspective on ageing	1	(8)
Theoretical perspectives on the study of ageing	9	(35)
Methodological aspects of the study of ageing	44	(35)
The demographic context	79	(35)
Health and illness	114	(39)
Psychological health and well-being	153	(34)
Family and social networks	187	(42)
Material resources in later life	229	(38)
Caring networks	267	(33)
Services for older people	300	(27)
The future of old age	327	(10)
References	337	(16)
Index	353