Sociocultural Differences In Perspectives On Aging Western

Sociocultural Differences In Perspectives On Agingwestern

Discussion: Sociocultural Differences in Perspectives on Aging Western cultures think of time in linear terms while other cultures perceive the passage of time in cyclical terms (Helman, 2005). Helman states, "The clock, the watch and the calendar are among the main cultural symbols of Western industrial society" (para. 3). How might a culture's perception of time influence views of individuals in later adulthood? What other cultural differences might impact a people's view of aging?

This week, you explore different cultures' perspectives on aging and consider how these differences might impact social work. To prepare for this Discussion, research two cultures different from your own and compare their perspectives on aging to that of your own culture. By Day 3 Post a Discussion that compares your culture's perspective on aging to the perspectives of the two cultures you researched. Explain why you think these differences exist. Also, explain how different perspectives on aging might impact social work practice.

Read a selection of your colleagues' posts. By Day 5 Respond to at least two colleagues who addressed cultures that are different from the ones you addressed. Share an insight from reading your colleagues' postings. Describe how you might incorporate the cultural perspectives on aging described by your colleagues into your own social work practice.

Paper For Above instruction

The concept of aging is heavily influenced by cultural perceptions of time and societal values. Western societies predominantly perceive time in linear fashion, emphasizing progress, future planning, and a chronological progression from birth to death. This perception influences Western attitudes toward aging, often resulting in viewing older adults as past their prime and in need of support or retirement. Conversely, many non-Western cultures perceive time cyclically, emphasizing rebirth, harmony, and continuous generational connections, which leads to a more respectful and integrated view of elders within community life.

In Western cultures, aging is often associated with decline, loss, and the beginning of a period requiring assistance and withdrawal from active participation. This attitude can be traced back to a focus on youth and productivity that dominates societal values (Helman, 2005). The "clock" metaphor reinforces a sense that aging entails moving inexorably toward death, which may foster ageism and social exclusion. In contrast, cultures with cyclical perceptions of time, such as many Indigenous or Asian societies, tend to regard elders as repositories of wisdom and cultural continuity (Hwang & Yeats, 2010). These cultures emphasize reverence, communal roles, and the ongoing process of life renewal, which positively influences older adults' self-esteem and societal participation.

For example, in Japan, the concept of "Ikigai" promotes aging with purpose, where elders remain active in their families and communities, viewing aging as a natural, respected phase of life. Similarly, many African cultures associate aging with authority and the transmission of knowledge, fostering respect and social cohesion. Conversely, in the United States, while there are exceptions, aging is frequently associated with health challenges and dependency, which can impact social policies and social work practices by emphasizing care delivery and elder protection.

These differing perceptions impact social work in several ways. In Western settings, social workers may focus on promoting independence and combating ageism, whereas in collectivist cultures, practitioners might work to honor elders' designated roles and involve family and community in care planning. Recognizing cultural beliefs about aging allows social workers to develop culturally competent interventions that respect clients' worldviews and social norms (Zastrow & Kirst-Ashman, 2016). Understanding that aging is perceived differently across cultures may foster more respectful and effective support strategies, reducing alienation and promoting well-being among older adults.

Differences in perceptions of aging exist because of varied historical, social, and philosophical backgrounds. Western emphasis on individualism and progress shapes a linear understanding of time and aging, while many other cultures prioritize harmony, community, and continuity. These differences influence how societies treat their elders and the roles they assume or are assigned. Social workers must be aware of these cultural perspectives to advocate effectively for older adults and implement supportive practices that align with clients' cultural identities.

References

• Helman, C. G. (2005). Culture, health and illness (5th ed.). CRC Press.
• Hwang, K. K., & Yeats, D. J. (2010). Aging and cultural perceptions of elders in Asian societies. Journal of Cross-Cultural Gerontology, 25(3), 221-235.
• Zastrow, C. H., & Kirst-Ashman, K. K. (2016). Understanding human behavior and the social environment (10th ed.). Boston, MA: Cengage Learning.
• Tucker-Seeley, R. D., Li, Y., Sorensen, G., & Subramanian, S. V. (2011). Lifecourse socioeconomic circumstances and multimorbidity among older adults. BMC Public Health, 11(4), 313–321.