SOC Chapter 12

Flashcards about aging and health.

Health

A state of complete physical, mental, and social wellness.

Social Epidemiology

The study of the distribution of diseases and health throughout a society’s population.

Sick Role

The expected behaviors and responsibilities appropriate for someone who is ill.

Medicalization

The idea that the medical community is the center of many aspects of American society

Obesity

An unhealthy accumulation of body fat.

Healthcare

The care, service, or supplies related to a person’s health.

Medicare

A government-run social insurance program that provides health coverage for people 65 and older.

Medicaid

A form of government health insurance designed for the poor and disabled.

Gerontology

The study of aging and the elderly.

Young Old

A cohort that consists of people between the ages of 65 and 75.

Old Old

A cohort of people over the age of 75.

Sandwiched Generation

A generation that takes care of both children and its elderly parents.

Ageism

Prejudice and discrimination based solely on age.

Disengagement Theory

Reduced interaction between older persons and others is unavoidable, mutual, and acceptably to both the individual and society.

Activity Theory

Life satisfaction depends on maintaining an involvement with life by developing new interests, hobbies, roles, and relationships.