SOCIOCULTURAL DIFFERENCES IN PERSPECTIVES ON AGING
Some cultures view death not as an endpoint but as a beginning, or not as a distinct separation but merely a thin veil or doorway through which a person passes. Other cultures esteem the older generations and honor them for their wisdom, whereas others regard elders as incapable of contributing to society. How might these distinct views on death and older people influence perspectives on the aging process? What other cultural differences might impact perceptions of aging?
This week, you explore different cultures’ views of aging and consider how these differences might influence social work. You also think cross-culturally about how you could integrate another culture’s perspective in your practice.
Be sure to review the Learning Resources before completing this activity.
TO PREPARE:
Review the Learning Resources on sociological aspects of later adulthood.
Using the Walden Library, research two cultures different from your own and examine their perspectives on aging.
An example search in the library databases is social conditions or sociocultural AND aging.
Post a comparison of your culture’s perspective on aging to the perspectives of the two cultures you researched. Explain why you think these differences exist. Also, explain how different perspectives on aging might impact social work practice.
Required Readings
Zastrow, C. H., Kirst-Ashman, K. K., & Hessenauer, S. L. (2019). Understanding human behavior and the social environment (11th ed.). Cengage Learning.
Chapter 16, “Sociological Aspects of Later Adulthood” (pp. 703–728)
Quach, L. T., Primack, J., Bozzay, M., Madrigal, C., Erqou, S., & Rudolph, J. L. (2021). The intersection of physical and social frailty in older adults.Links to an external site. Rhode Island Medical Journal, 104(4), 16–19.
Teater, B., Chonody, J. M., & Davis, N. (2021). Risk and protective factors of loneliness among older adults: The significance of social isolation and quality and type of contact.Links to an external site. Social Work in Public Health, 36(2), 128–141. https://doi.org/10.1080/19371918.2020.1866140
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). Aging: Resources near you.Links to an external site. https://www.hhs.gov/aging/state-resources/index.html
