Theories of Ageing
ACTIVITY THEORY & DISENGAGEMENT THEORY | Shannon Smith
.Sociological and Psychological Theories
ACTIVITY THEORY
This is a theory which argues that elderly people need to stay both mentally and socially active and alert in order to limit the risks associated with disengagement. It is important to maintain an interest in life for as long as possible, whilst enjoying the company of others while they can. This theory promotes the elderly taking part in activities and joining in with games with others to ensure they are happy and spending their last few years doing something rather than being lonely and unhappy..
DISENGAGEMENT THEORY
This is a theory that elderly people will withdraw from social contact with others that aren't close family and friends, and they will disengage because of the reduced physical health and loss of social opportunities. As they have aged over time, they have became more individual to the point of being less concerned with others. Whether this is to do with ill health and not being mobile enough to walk around and take part in activities, or having issues with sight and hearing which can make it difficult for the elderly to interact with others surrounding them. It is said that being disengaged, they are prone to being lonely and depressed due to the lack of communication.
BIOLOGICAL AGEING THEORY
Disposable soma is a theory that relates growing with age to the linkage of survival and reproduction. This theory believes that ageing is caused by the body having fewer resources to allocate towards repairing wear and damage to the tissues.
Genetically programmed theory of ageing is the idea that ageing will occur over time, and is programmed within each individuals genes, and the deterioration process will eventually lead to death.