Cuerpo, cultura y envejecimiento. Análisis de la imagen corporal en la publicación "60 y más" ( Imserso )

Abstract

This paper deals with a small part of a larger study about body culture and the subjective dimensions of aging. In other words, we look at the influences of hegemonic body culture in the way that men and women face and live their process of becoming "elderly" (euphemism that avoids theword 'old '). Our starting point is that the body which embodies and (re)presents old age is a cultural construction that is (re)created and transmitted through various means by social actors with\npower and capability. In this context, this paper focuses only on the representation of the aging process by the body\nimages of the covers of an official magazine, "60 and more", published by the IMSERSO (Institute for the Elderly and Social Services) to inform, guide and advise this targeted audience of more than sixty years. Briefly,we conclude that, according to the imagery of the journal, the model for 'older person' is constituted by these body features: blond/gray (dyed) hairs, clear eyes, tanned, slim and agile. Urban Europeans brimming with satisfaction and happiness while enjoying leisure time with\ntheir partner (through a traditional gendered structure). Young elderly living an idealized stage of life, conquering public spaces for active and healthy aging. Finally, it is suggested that the reflection on the role played by body culture in our vision of the aging process in our cultural context might increase our capacity to imagine alternatives committed to a society for all ages.

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