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Key points
- Ageism and shrinking social networks can lead to social alienation.
- Retirement can cause significant identity loss and economic instability for older adults.
Aging, an inescapable part of the human experience, is often accompanied by significant social, psychological, and physical changes. The concept of alienation, a term originally grounded in Marxist theory, is useful in examining the challenges and experiences associated with aging. Alienation, in its broadest concept, refers to a sense of estrangement or disconnection from various aspects of our life or society. When applied to aging, alienation theory helps explain the ways in which elderly individuals may feel isolated, marginalised, and disconnected from society, their work, and even their own identities.
The United Nations has launched its first report on the Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021-2030), highlighting efforts to improve the lives of older adults since 2020. The report captures the impact of major challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused over 80% of deaths among those over 60, and showcases activities supporting healthy aging in nearly 50 countries. Significant progress includes increased legislation against ageism, better access to assistive products, comprehensive health and social care assessments, and the promotion of age-friendly communities based on a survey conducted across 136 countries.
Alienation Theory Historical Context
It was Karl Marx, who developed the term alienation to describe the estrangement of workers from the products of their labour, the labour process, their fellow workers, and their own human potential. Marx argued that under capitalism, workers become alienated because they are deprived of the opportunity to see their labour as an expression of their creativity and humanity. Over time, the concept of alienation has been extended beyond the economic sphere to include various forms of social and personal estrangement.
Aging and Social Alienation
One of the primary ways alienation is evident in the context of aging is through social alienation. As individuals age, they often experience a decreasing social network due to retirement, the death of peers, and physical limitations. This decrease in social interactions can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation. The slow breakup of social connections is particularly acute in societies where the elderly are not integrated into the broader community but are instead segregated in nursing homes or retirement communities.
Moreover, societal attitudes towards aging often worsen this alienation. Ageism, or discrimination based on age, is a pervasive issue that affects the elderly. Older individuals are frequently perceived as less competent, less valuable, and more burdensome. These stereotypes can lead to their marginalization and exclusion from meaningful participation in social, economic, and political life. The internalisation of these negative stereotypes can also contribute to a diminished sense of self-worth and identity among the elderly.
Alienation From Productivity and Work
The transition from work to retirement is another significant factor contributing to the alienation of the elderly. Work is a central component of an individual’s identity and self-worth in many cultures. Retirement, while often viewed as a period of well-deserved rest, can also be a time of significant identity loss. The cessation of work-related activities and the absence of daily routines can lead to feelings of purposelessness and disconnection from society.
Additionally, the economic implications of retirement can contribute to alienation. Many elderly individuals face financial instability due to inadequate pensions or savings, leading to economic marginalisation. The struggle to maintain financial independence can heighten feelings of alienation as they navigate a society that often values individuals based on their economic contributions.
Alienation From the Self
Aging can also lead to a deep sense of alienation from the self. This form of alienation arises when individuals no longer recognise themselves due to the physical and cognitive changes associated with aging. The loss of physical abilities, chronic illnesses, and cognitive decline can alter an individual’s self-perception and self-esteem. The disconnect between their internal sense of self and their external reality can create a sense of estrangement and loss of identity.
Also, the societal emphasis on youth and beauty today can intensify this self-alienation. The media and cultural narratives often portray aging in a negative light, celebrating youth and vitality while depicting old age as a period of decline and obsolescence. This cultural devaluation of aging can lead to internalised ageism, where elderly individuals adopt negative attitudes toward themselves and their aging process.
Addressing Alienation in Aging
Understanding alienation in the context of aging is crucial for developing interventions and policies that promote the well-being of the elderly. Addressing social alienation requires fostering inclusive communities where the elderly are valued and integrated. This can be achieved through intergenerational programs, community engagement initiatives, and policies that combat ageism and promote social inclusion.
Societies need to recognise and value the contributions of older individuals beyond their economic productivity to mitigate alienation from work. Flexible retirement policies, opportunities for lifelong learning, and avenues for voluntary work can help maintain a sense of purpose and engagement among the elderly.
Addressing self-alienation involves challenging societal narratives that devalue aging and promoting a positive and realistic portrayal of the aging process. Encouraging self-acceptance and providing support for managing physical and cognitive changes can help elderly individuals maintain a positive self-concept.
In conclusion, alienation theory offers a valuable framework for understanding the many different experiences of aging. By recognising the ways in which elderly individuals may feel estranged from society, work, and themselves, we can develop more effective strategies to promote their well-being and social integration. Addressing alienation in aging not only enhances the quality of life for the elderly but also fosters a more inclusive, positive, and compassionate society for all ages.
