Abstract

FALLAS, Cindy Artavia -. Exploration of identity and bonds of affection in elderly women. InterSedes [online]. 2014, vol.15, n.32, pp.156-175. ISSN 2215-2458.

This article explores the characteristics of the identity of elderly women and the bonds that they have created and continue to create based on this identity. The main objective of the research is to analyze identity and bonds of affection in elderly women. The information was obtained through bibliographical revision and also by contacting a group of women from the Centro Diurno de Ancianos, Aserrí (Elderly day care center located in Aserrí), who participated in a focus group session and shared their life stories.

This approach states that identity is a construction, and that upon entering older adulthood, this identity is influenced by former perceptions that the individual has about this particular stage and by myths that exist in society. Interpersonal bonds also affect the way a person lives his or her older adulthood: if these are positive, an individual experiences greater satisfaction and acceptance regarding this period; on the contrary, older adulthood will be perceived as a process of physical deterioration and emotional isolation.

Keywords : Identity; affective bonds; older adulthood; aging; gender; women; gerontology.

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