Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Faculty of Family and Community SciencesThe Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara-390002 (Gujarat)
Online Published on 22 September, 2022.
This study aimed to identify the concepts and perceptions of ageing in middle-adults, (N=30), ages varying from 40 to 50 years, and elderly (N=30), of 60 years and above. It was also aimed to find out how the participants’ perceptions and attitudes influence their life satisfaction. The participants (N=60) equally representing men and women, who belonged to the lower socioeconomic status, were interviewed individually. Rowe Kahn Scale (1998) was adapted to measure the influence of ideas of ageing on their satisfaction. Participants viewed ageing related to disabilities and dependency as well as a decline in physical capacities as a natural process. Overall, 90 per cent of the elderly reported being satisfied (Santusht) with their lives. Cultural values like intergenerational reciprocity and the idea of serving (Seva) were guiding principles for many middle adults.
Ageing, Satisfaction, Cultural practices, Coping mechanism, Positive ageing, Resource-poor context, Acceptance
