Explorations of Diversity, Essay Example

For this assignment, I chose Chapter 20 entitled “Ageism: The “-ism” we will all face one day” because it reflects an important stereotype that often exists in society in regards to older adults. In many ways, this chapter points directly at this stereotype and how society generally revels in independence rather than a dependence on other people (Anderson & Middleton, 2011). It also addresses some of the primary assumptions made regarding age and how it impacts activities and decisions during the twilight years.

This chapter is essential reading because there is a significant emphasis on age as a critical factor in how individuals respond to different events throughout the life span. As adults grow older, it becomes increasingly obvious that many stereotypes exist that influence how older adults experience life at this stage. In addition, they are often forced to reevaluate their circumstances in order to determine their value to a society that emphasizes youth and creativity.

Weaving through these stereotypes is particularly difficult for many older adults because they often do not fall into these categories as many may believe to be the case (Anderson & Middleton, 2011). Unfortunately, this causes tension and discord among some older adults if they become resentful of these stereotypes and how they impact their ability to experience their lives in their own way. Therefore, a balance must be achieved that aims to recognize changes in this stage but also supports freedom and independence for as long as possible.

It is only natural to consider the impact of depression and other circumstances at this stage, as they have an impact on how older adults conduct their lives and whether or not their quality of life is sufficient (Anderson & Middleton, 2011). In some cases, depression may strip away their dignity, confidence, and general quality of life and as a result, some of the typical stereotypes may appear to be relevant. Nonetheless, there must be a greater focus and an understanding of how older adults respond to these circumstances and what may be necessary to overcome adversity at this stage (Anderson & Middleton, 2011). It is believed that older adults who face mental health concerns will experience even greater adversity that influences many aspects of their lives, including decision-making and other tools that are part of daily living (Anderson & Middleton, 2011).

Older adults represent a diverse group of people that is different because it is not based on culture, religion, or ethnicity; nonetheless, this group faces difficulties because of their age and how a gradual decline in overall functionality may impact their lives (Anderson & Middleton, 2011). This reality is not unique, yet it provides a means of exploring why older adults face discrimination of their own accord (Anderson & Middleton, 2011). Based upon these observations, older adults may experience many different types of battles within society and within themselves that influence how they respond to changes in their physical, mental, and psychological state (Anderson & Middleton, 2011).  The concept of ageism assumes many forms in the older adult population; therefore, it must be approached from a new perspective and aim to provide a greater understanding of how older adults respond to change within their lives. It is expected that they will continue to fight stereotypes for the foreseeable future due to a perceived lack of independence and a loss of dignity and self-respect in many cases. This chapter emphasizes the importance of adversity and how older adults experience many types of challenges that they endure that are difficult to overcome, particularly when stereotypes infiltrate much of society and create a difficult path to freedom and opportunity.

References

Anderson, K.H., & Middleton, V.A. (2011). Explorations of Diversity: Examining Privilege and Oppression in a Multicultural Society, 2^nd Edition. Belmont: Cengage Learning.