The Cultural Context of Aging

This collection of essays and specially commissioned articles uses the concept of culture to explore the parameters of aging and being old in a worldwide context. Its aim is to examine two broad interrelated facets of later life--how older adults function as social actors in diverse societies, and how the context of a culture creates a varied interpretation of what aging means. Containing both specific case studies and broader analytical articles, the volume focuses on the multitude of cultural solutions societies have available for dealing with growing old.

Sokolovsky has organized the text around six topical areas that link the major concerns of social gerontology with a wide range of anthropological materials. The coverage of societies includes African hunters and gatherers and urban dwellers; horticultural people of Polynesia; cross-national comparisons of Japan, Sweden, China, Yugoslavia and Israel; and U.S. ethnic groups. Each section contains a short summary of the general topic as well as a discussion of related readings, and deals directly with key practical issues relevant to those seeking a career in gerontology. The book also offers distinct anthropological perspectives on aging, including selections that compare our culture with those of other societies. This important collection will be an appropriate reference source for courses in anthropology, sociology, social work, and medicine, as well as a valuable addition to both academic and public libraries.