Making sense of experience: death and old age

Journal/Book: J Soc Work Practice. 1998; 12: PO Box 25, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, England Ox14 3Ue. Carfax Publ Co. 217-226.

Abstract: This article explores the contemporary context in which older people make sense of death; their own and that of other people. It gives a historical perspective on death for the current cohort of older people, identifying four significant catalytic elements; two world wars, a decline in the place of ritual, increased secularisation of society and an emphasis upon individualism. Tt goes on to look at the changed patterns of health and social care which have been prompted by new medical advances and the rise in the bureaucratic management of care services. The dilemma of choice/constraint confronting older people is epitomised in the issues of private freedom v. Public control contained in the debate on euthanasia. This article seeks to challenge the social stereotypes ill which sight is lost of the possibilities in old age for personal choice and the opportunity to accommodate grief: Finally, new theoretical perspectives on grief are examined and seen to offer a broader view than is found in classical theories of grief, of what is 'normal' in bereavement. Additionally they propose that support is necessary within natural networks as well as within therapeutic settings; a breakthrough in the normalisation of grief for older people.

Note: Article Machin L, Univ Keele, Dept Appl Social Studies, Keele ST5 5BG, Staffs, ENGLAND

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