Theories of ageing

Activity Theory

Elderly people take an active part in society

play bingo, gardening, book club

improves self concept

more activity older adults engage in, the greater the life satisfactionic

Disengagement theory

Elderly people do not participate in soceity

this may be due to poor health

transport issues

widowhood

this can cause lonliness and depression

elderly people have time to reflect on their experiences

helps with the burden of death if elderly are not actively engaged

allows the elderly to adapt to change possibly illness

Cummings and Henry 1961 argue this is a natural withdrawal from society

Individuals play variety of social roles in their lifetimes