AGING AND AGEISM: THE CONSTRUCTION OF IDENTITY AND GENERATIONAL ROLES IN CONTEMPORARY TIMES

Abstract

This article examines aging from the perspective of the sociology of identity and recognition, connecting the ideas of authors from the humanities and social sciences with the discussion on ageism and stigma. The current increase in the elderly population worldwide raises important questions for the social sciences and public health, particularly regarding how people construct their identities, the roles that different generations play, and the social recognition of older adults. We believe that aging is not merely a biological process, but a social experience marked by power relations, social rules, and laws that directly impact mental health and access to rights. This is a theoretical-analytical study, based on a critical review of sociological literature and normative documents of Brazilian public policies, such as the Unified Health System (SUS), the National Health Policy for the Elderly (PNSPI), and the Psychosocial Care Network (RAPS). We argue that ageism functions as a type of stigma, causing invisibility, difficulties, and emotional suffering. We concluded that investing in integrated public policies, based on dignity, is essential for providing comprehensive healthcare for the elderly.