SOCIAL CHANGE AND INITIATIVES FOR THE ELDERLY: Step towards a new role

Abstract

Until not too many years ago, and even today, a certain compassionate paternalism or even a very slightly dissimulated rejection was our society’s reaction towards the elderly. Without doubt, the lack of an overall recognised social role to play in our society seems to have something to do with that limited social status. In this article, based on research recording the qualitative perspective via discussion groups, the aim is to show how the elderly are, and have been for some years now, trying to change that situation of social devaluation in which they find themselves. By observing key areas, such as family and non-domestic activities, we can see attempts to improve their social position via irregular strategies aimed at others and towards themselves; in which material and symbolic actions are concerned in order to achieve greater social recognition, consideration (on a personal and broader scale) and self-esteem as a vital stage and generation. It is an attempt by the elderly to revert the current situation and change from being an object social group to a subject social group.