A life course perspective on the GENdered PATHways of Social exclusion in later life, and its consequences for health and wellbeing
Social exclusion in later life is a multifaceted social problem with substantial disruptive consequences for individuals and society. One aspect of social exclusion is the exclusion from social relations, which is the key focus of this project. Being socially connected is a universal basic human need; key to the development of infants, and important throughout the life course. However, a substantial proportion of older adults are socially excluded and lack the essential social connection necessary for a healthy and happy life. Social exclusion may have its roots in early life, but patterns of social exclusion over the life course may well be different for men and women. Women generally have lower education, more often disrupted labour force participation, lower pensions, and are more often widowed because of longer life expectancy. Whether and how precisely this leads to higher rates of exclusion for women is still largely unknown. Scientific knowledge of the gendered pattern of exclusion from social relations is scattered and policies to reduce the inequalities limited in effectiveness. The proposed project aims to analyse gender differences in the construction and consequences of exclusion from social relations across European countries, and its consequences for health and wellbeing. Findings will be used to inform the scientific debate about social exclusion, and to inform policies to reduce exclusion from social relations in older men and women. GENPATH fits the SDG 3: Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.
GENPATH Facebook Page
Check out the “Genpath: Lifecourse and gendered pathways of social exclusion in later life” facebook page and see Celia Sheridan share her understanding of #gender and #ageing.
GENPATH PROJECT Co-Ordinator
ERA GENDER-NET
Outputs:
The model lessons presented here introduce students to the issue of loneliness in old age, the role of social relationships in society and the risk factors that can lead to loneliness (not only) in old age.
The lessons aim to integrate the latest scientific findings in the field of social gerontology into the school curriculum, thus creating space to promote potential early intervention to address feelings of loneliness and to activate intergenerational dialogue and empathy.
Introduction – Information for Teachers
Lecture A: Aloneness and loneliness at various stages of life
Lecture B: What Is Aloneness and Loneliness and How Can We Actively Listen to Others