Study Guide for Chapter 13: Aging and the Elderly

A collection of flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to aging and the elderly from Chapter 13.

Gerontology

The study of aging and the elderly.

Life Expectancy

The average number of years a person can expect to live.

Ageism

Discrimination based on age.

Baby Boomers

People in the United States born between approximately 1946 and 1964.

Centenarians

People 100 years old or older.

Cohort

A group of people who share a statistical or demographic trait.

Dependency Ratio

The number of nonproductive citizens (young, disabled, elderly) to productive working citizens.

Elder Abuse

The act of a caretaker intentionally depriving an older person of care or harming the person in their charge.

Functionalism

Views aging as a natural process that contributes to the stability of society.

Disengagement Theory

Suggests that withdrawing from society and social relationships is a natural part of growing old.

Activity Theory

Proposes that for individuals to enjoy old age and feel satisfied, they must maintain activities and find replacements for the statuses and roles they have left behind.

Continuity Theory

States that the elderly make specific choices to maintain consistency in internal (personality structure, beliefs) and external structures (relationships), remaining active and involved throughout their elder years.

Conflict Theory

Focuses on the power disparities and struggles between different age groups, highlighting how the elderly are often marginalized.

Symbolic Interactionism

Examines how aging is socially constructed and maintained through interactions.

Age Stratification

The unequal distribution of wealth, power, and privilege among people at different stages of the life course.

Filial Piety

A cultural value that emphasizes respect and care for the elderly.

Health Care

Access to and quality of health care for the elderly.

Economic Security

Issues related to retirement, pensions, and financial stability.

Social Isolation

The impact of loneliness and social isolation on the elderly’s mental and physical health.