As humans, one thing binds us universally: we age. Yet societies and cultures perceive aging in profoundly different ways, shaping how we treat older individuals and view our own aging process.
With global life expectancy rising and birth rates declining, aging populations are becoming a universal reality. Currently, about 1 in 11 people (9%) worldwide are over 65, according to the United Nations. This figure is projected to increase to 1 in 6 people (16%) by 2050, representing a dramatic demographic shift. This shift demands more conversations around how the process of aging is viewed in our society, and what changes can help our elders lead a better and more fulfilling life in their later years.
Collectivist societies, which emphasize familial and community bonds, often view elders as integral members. They are valued for their role in society where they maintain continuity of traditions and provide wisdom and guidance to the younger members. Conversely, individualistic cultures may prioritize independence and productivity, inadvertently sidelining those who are perceived to not fit this description, including older individuals.
In many Asian cultures, aging is synonymous with gaining wisdom. For instance, in Japan, the concept of “kōreisha” (elderly) conveys a sense of respect and reverence. Elders are seen as keepers of tradition and wisdom, celebrated annually during Keiro no Hi (Respect for the Aged Day). In contrast, Western societies, particularly in North America, often glorify youthfulness. Terms like “anti-aging” dominate marketing campaigns, subtly (or sometimes, not so subtly) suggesting that aging is something to be resisted rather than embraced.
Mass media plays a significant role in shaping perceptions of aging. In Hollywood films such as Grumpy Old Men (1993), older characters are often stereotyped as easily annoyed, constantly complaining, and set in their own ways. However, films like The Intern (2015) challenge these stereotypes by showing a retired professional re-entering the workforce. Similarly, Korean dramas often offer nuanced portrayals of older protagonists, such as in Navillera (2021), which tells the inspiring story of a 70-year-old man who pursues his dream of learning ballet. These examples highlight the power of media to both reinforce and challenge ageist stereotypes, shaping how society views older individuals.
With a global rise in the elder population, and as economic pressures and caregiving needs grow, societies have been grappling with integrating older individuals into their frameworks. For instance, intergenerational living arrangements are resurging; the idea of living with parents or other elder members of the family seems more lucrative to all members of the family unit. Meanwhile, countries like Sweden are pioneering “age-friendly cities,” focusing on accessible infrastructure and inclusive policies to ensure quality of life for all ages. Programs which engage retirees in meaningful community work, or age-inclusive design initiatives, are steps in the right direction. They demonstrate how societies can celebrate aging as a phase of continued growth and contribution.
Not discounting these efforts, ageism, or prejudice against individuals based on their age, remains a pervasive issue. It is deeply embedded in societal structures, from workplace discrimination to healthcare biases. Tackling this challenge requires long-term cultural shifts in mindset. Promoting the idea that aging is not a decline, but a transformation can change the narrative.
As human society evolves, so do the cultural perceptions of aging. By promoting dialogue and highlighting the value of older individuals, we can let go of stereotypes and create societies where aging is not feared but embraced. Our differences make us unique and valuable members of society.
References
- Sugimoto, Yoshio. An Introduction to Japanese Society. Cambridge University Press, 2021.
- Gullette, M. M. Agewise: Fighting the New Ageism in America. University of Chicago Press, 2011.
- North, M. S., & Fiske, S. T. (2012). An Inconvenienced Youth? Ageism and Its Potential Intergenerational Roots. Psychological Bulletin, 138(5), 982–997.
- United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division (2019). World Population Ageing 2019: Highlights.
- WHO (World Health Organization). Global Age-Friendly Cities: A Guide. 2007.
- Government of Canada. Age-Friendly Communities Initiative.
- Ogawa, N., & Retherford, R. D. (1997). Shifting Costs of Caring for the Elderly Back to Families in Japan: Will It Work? Population and Development Review, 23(1), 59-94.
- Robinson, T., & Anderson, C. (2006). Older Characters in Teen Movies: An Analysis of Their Portrayals. Journal of Aging Studies, 20(3), 183–196.
- Kim, Y., & Yang, H. (2019). Old Age in Korean Dramas: Representation and Reality. Asian Journal of Communication, 29(3), 221–239.
Manjula Kamath
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