NEW INTERMEDIATE FORMS IN ELDERLY SOCIALIZATION
YAŞLILARIN SOSYALLEŞMESİNDE YENİ ARA FORMLAR

Author : Sevim ATİLA DEMİR
Number of pages : 301-311

Abstract

Important changes are taking place in the field of socialization in today's world, as in every field. One of these is the change in the form and nature of social solidarity. Today, face-to-face interaction areas are restricted almost exclusively to core family networks, with the form to support socialization and the need for solidarity. This is why we are witnessing new forms of socialization in modern societies. These include social media and virtual communities. The fact that the elderly population in the world has been increasing day by day has made old age studies a more important discipline. Old age studies focus not only on the physical and economic well-being of the elderly, but also on their social and psychological well-being. It is one of the most important indicators that old age studies are being carried out centering the active and on-site ageing. However, despite this, the pace of technological changes and new developments can make it difficult for the elderly, especially in social terms, to adapt to the new situation. The nature of the changing communication networks has led to difficulties in meeting the solidarity and acceptance needs of the elderly. The substituent virtual support networks are not actively used by the elderly, especially in our country, and this situation leads to a stronger feeling of some psychological needs. Modern societies require new forms of socialization, especially for the elderly. There are social counsellors, psychologists and support for the elderly within various institutions. Expanding this support network is especially important for increasing commitment to life and social support. Social support groups that exist in various forms around the world are a concrete example in this sense. The mentioned areas of change in modern societies have raised different needs for all individuals. These needs differ according to age, socio-economic level and individual experiences. These groups are organized by taking into account the differences and sensitivities of the individuals. Studies on social support groups are classified by both support group organizational forms and support areas. Common conditions experienced with aging, such as loss of family and friends in old age, worsening of health, decreased mobility and income, may cause older individuals to become lonelier. Loneliness also means an increase in the level of despair, and with it, the power to deal with physical difficulties is weakened. It is anticipated that the weekly groups, which will be organized by encouraging more voluntary participation from outside, especially for the elderly who remain in institutions, may create areas of interaction in order to create a different and new breath. It is important that these programs be discussed as a new form of socialization of the elderly.

Keywords

Elderliness, Active Aging, Socializing, Social Support, Social Support Groups

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