P4: Explain two theories on ageing.
Social disengagement:
The disengagement theory argues that older people will need to disengage from others, socially due to illnesses and physical health. Elaine Cumming & William Henry wrote about the theory in 1961 which was in a book called ‘Growing Old’. Cumming & Henry based their theory on 172 middle classed individuals between the ages of 48 – 68. They also believed that elderly people will be less concerned about what their expectations are within the society. The disengagement theory is when the elderly person will withdraw from social contact with others. Older people will disengage because of reduced physical health and loss of social opportunities. Engagement means being involved with people or activities. Disengagement is when someone withdraws them self from involvement. Elaine Cumming and William Henry in 1961 put forward That as people began to age they would naturally tend to withdraw from social involvement with others due to the restricted opportunities to have interaction with other people close to their age
enforced, rather than voluntary.
Ill health : They may have health problems or diseases that stop them from interacting with other people. Some of these could be hearing impairment, visual impairment, mobility or breathing etc.
Geographical mobility : They may move to a place that is quiet and peaceful as they may become easily irritated by noisy environments. It could also mean that family members want more privacy. They move away to find a better job in another place.
Retirement : Is when they stop working completely as they will not be able to do their job as effective as before due to ageing. This means that they will no longer or have less contact with their colleagues.
Travel and technology :
Technology – Some older people don’t know how to use computers or phones. Everything is technology based in this era, computers and phones are the most important thing to have as it will help you...