Critical Questions for Ageing Societies

"A refreshing approach to the study of the social aspects of ageing. It introduces critical questions which challenge stereotypes about ageing and blends theory, practice and policy. A must read for everyone interested in gerontology." Judith Phillips OBE, University of Stirling

"A very helpful text which adopts an international lens on ageing issues. I especially like the quizzes and exercises as they complement the text well and are engaging. I have already used one in my teaching." Alisoun Milne, University of Kent

"I like the topics selected - all have great relevance in contemporary gerontology and the exercises at the end of each chapter promote students to reflect on what they have read and to check understanding. The book could be read as a novel because the flow is excellent. The references used are excellent and the authors actively promote further reading. It is an informed, intelligent book that is an asset to students." Angela Kydd, Robert Gordon University

"This remarkable book provides an excellent introduction to crucial issues facing ageing societies. It succeeds in challenging its readers to question their assumptions about ageing and later life." Thomas Scharf, Newcastle University

"An accessible introduction to current issues facing ageing societies. The critical perspective encourages the reader to question taken-for-granted assumptions, and explore the evidence behind the headlines." Rosalind Willis, University of Southampton

“An important, interesting and engaging book. It challenges conventional stereotypes and myths about age and ageing and encourages readers to critically interrogate the role and position of older people in modern societies and economies.” Eamon O’Shea, National University of Ireland Galway

Gemma M. Carney is a critical gerontologist and Senior Lecturer in Social Policy and Ageing at Queen’s University Belfast.

Paul Nash is a chartered psychologist and Associate Professor in the Leonard Davis School of Gerontology at the University of Southern California.

Both authors won student-nominated teaching awards for their classes in gerontology and social policy in 2019.

What is population ageing? (Demography)

When am I officially past it? The ageist zeitgeist (Ageism and ageist stereotyping)

Will I ever have enough money to retire? (Retirement, active ageing and working longer)

Will I need care when I am old? (Care and support in later life)

All old people are pretty much the same, aren’t they? (Diversity among the ageing population)

Aren’t gender differences neutralised by age? (Gender)

Why do older people have it so good? (The myth of intergenerational conflict)

Why do older people vote, while younger people protest? (Politics of ageing)

What does it mean to live a long life? (Cultural gerontology)

What are my next steps? (Conclusions, reflections and actions)

Now that you know about ageing … (Additional questions and revision)