Interdependence and the Aged Stereotype

If being dependent is a stigmatised state in western society, then older members of the society will attempt to define their situation as independent However, most people act out their daily lives involved in social networks in which they exchange money, goods, services, emotional support, etc., with kin, friends, neighbours, etc. From the qualitative analysis of 78 interviews with older persons living independently in the community, the concept ‘independence’ was found to include interdependence. When asked to define and describe their independence, participants illustrated how they were not dependent and they were not powerless. The key concepts in the maintenance of their independent lifestyle are control, mediation and reciprocation of assistance. It is concluded that the assessment of independence, and the development of programs aimed at promoting independence, should be expanded to include participation within unique interdependent networks.