Social Paradigms on the Status and Role of the Elderly

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Published: Dec 5, 2019
Keywords:
The Elderly Active Ageing Productive Ageing Activities

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Sansanee Chanarnupap
The Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Thaksin University
Chamnong Reakphinij
Thaksin University

Abstract

       This article aimed to describe the social paradigm shift towards the status and roles of the elderly. For decades, the process of modernization has promoted a negative stereotype about the elderly in the society. People in the modern society mostly value economic growth and success. As a result, the elderly are monitored for the balance of costs and reciprocity in the exchange relationship. Accordingly, the elderly are often seen as burdensome. However, this myth about the elderly is challenged by a new paradigm that focuses on people-centred development and human security. The concept of “Active Ageing” consists of two basic principles: (1) Humanitarian Aspect of Ageing, means that the elderly’s basic rights and needs should be protected. The social norms should take a stand against discrimination, (2) Developmental Aspect of Ageing, means that the elderly are potential for social and economic contribution. A promotion plan for elderly’s participation in productive ageing activities is necessary. Nowadays, the national policies for the aging population in Thailand have adopted the concept of active ageing. This is for the well-being of the Thai elderly.

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How to Cite
Chanarnupap, S., & Reakphinij, C. (2019). Social Paradigms on the Status and Role of the Elderly. Parichart Journal, 32(2), 1–13. Retrieved from https://so05.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/parichartjournal/article/view/149869
Issue
Vol. 32 No. 2 (2019): July - December 2019
Section
Academic Article

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