Achievements, Doubts, and Prospects of the Sociology of Aging

Abstract

This article provides a discussion of the achievements and prospects for the sociology of aging. Underprivileged groups of older persons can be seen as the result of historical, technological and cultural conditions, such as lack of education, minimal health education, etc., which have set limits on the opportunities for further development of the individual. Many age-grade phenomena may be better interpreted in terms of the division of labour, rather than the usual age-grade role-system model. The exchange theory of inter-generational relations is insufficient; instead, overcompensation of older persons according to weighted and justified needs is required. The construct of identity is a conservative one in developmental theory, and fails to address issues of revision of values, new career tracks, etc. as required for aging in a changing environment. The author argues for fulfillment as a life strategy for development, and recommends biographical research methods to complement survey methods.

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