I find the activity theory as it is written in Berger (2011) particularly interesting. This theory is the view that elderly people are most often happier being actively involved with groups that engage them such as friends, family, community groups, etc. Berger (2011) states that some elderly people do begin to withdraw, but most are much happier in "roles" such as spouse, parent, or educator.
We, as a family, are watching my grandfather in his later years right now in a very nice nursing home. He is quite intelligent and had a very fulfilling life as a district justice and Mayor. He ended up moving into a retirement community with his second wife. My grandfather remarried around age 75. We chalked it up to him not knowing much of living without being a husband and fulfilling that role. I write this because his second wife has just passed away and we are already seeing signs of decline with him. I do believe this theory to be somewhat true in his case. His sense of purpose is now gone. While he had a hard time accepting that he was providing less and less care to her as he weakened physically, it became exceptionally trying as her dementia worsened and he was no longer providing her emotional support as she could not recognize him.
I believe it is true that we need a purpose as human beings. Some more than others, of course. Possibly those who felt more defined by a role have a harder time adjusting. Society has an effect, as well, in that we value independence. In the end, the majority of us will largely lose our physical independence. Why is it we have such a hard time with that? I know I will. However, there are some people that have disabilities that deprive them the ability to walk and they certainly find purpose and meaning. Some are insanely inspiring and become iconic figures in our society. I am sure that environment, society, and genetics play a role in how we all accept the coming of age.
No comments:
Post a Comment