Chapter 2: The Influence of Leisure on Discourses of Aging 2 The Influence of Leisure on Discourses of Aging Rylee A. Dionigi and Sean Horton C H A P T E R

The Influence of Leisure on Discourses of Aging: Key Points Stereotypes and opposing discourses of aging in Western society Ageism and access to leisure Aging stereotypes and identity Aging stereotypes and leisure behaviors Role of leisure in reinforcing or resisting aging stereotypes

Stereotypes Refer to unchallenged myths that are widespread and well entrenched in society. Can involve making assumptions and generalizations about how people behave and what they are likely to encounter, without considering individual differences or unique circumstances.

Negative Aging Discourse Aging as decline—stereotype emphasizing ill health, idleness, disengagement, dependency, and deterioration as the inevitable processes of aging.

Many older adults resist the dominant negative discourse of aging through physical, mental, and social stimulation.

Ageism Refers to a complex form of social oppression based on age, similar to prejudice based on race or gender. Includes a set of social relations that discriminate against older people and set them apart as different by defining them in an oversimplified, generalized way.

Ageism and the Media Older adults are more likely to be portrayed in the media as forgetful, frail, dependent, comical, cranky, and sexually impotent. Older women are particularly under- represented in the media. News broadcasts often position older adults as a burden on society. (continued)

Ageism and the Media (continued) Advertisements contribute to fear of aging through antiaging campaigns. Negative portrayals of older adults in the media influence the way they are perceived by younger people.

Self-Stereotyping Among Seniors Implicit vs. explicit Effects on task performance Stereotype threat –A decline in performance due to the threat of being viewed through the lens of a negative stereotype –The fear of doing something that would inadvertently confirm a negative stereotype about one’s social group (continued)

Self-Stereotyping Among Seniors (continued) Negative self-stereotypes among seniors can –affect their performance in a number of physical and cognitive tasks, –influence activities in which they engage, and –have implications for health and well-being.

Seniors with more positive opinions of their own aging often better care for their health, which includes getting more exercise.

Ageism and Competitive Sport Competitive sport has been considered for young people. Older people who buy into stereotypes about sport tend to be involved in more passive, rather than highly active, leisure pursuits (particularly older women).

Ageism and Health Implications Seniors with more positive opinions of their own aging take better care of their health (e.g., exercise, eating, visiting their doctor). Those with positive self-perceptions tend to live longer. Negative stereotypes of being old and aging are being challenged through the health and fitness promotion.

Positive Aging Discourse Suggests that older adults can live active, vital, independent lives, and leisure plays a part in this. Also called healthy aging, successful aging, or optimal aging. Deems regular physical activity appropriate to maintain health and postpone decline.

Leisure as Resistance to Ageism “Leisure presents the potential to challenge ageism and the self-fulfilling prophesy of underuse of physical and mental abilities in old age” (Wearing, 1995, p. 263). Highlights personal choice and ability. Can be individual or collective. Linked to power relations. (continued)

Leisure as Resistance to Ageism (continued) Supports personal empowerment and self- worth. Linked to delayed physiological decline. Potential for establishment of new stereotypes. Problematic for people who do not have ability, access, means, or desire.

Leisure as Reinforcement of Ageism Fear that dangers outweigh benefits Policies and health professionals Promotion of values of youthfulness, competition, fitness, and ability Idea that there is one path to successful aging