Experiences of Aging and Older Adult’s Identity Tensions Across Socio-Economic Lines

Abstract

The present research explores the effects of aging on the identities of people aged 65 years and older, and how these experiences vary across socioeconomic lines within the context of Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. Drawing on sociological theories of aging, this qualitative research employs semi-structured interviews and a demographic questionnaire to better understand participants’ experiences of aging and the nature of their identities in later life. The findings reveal that age is not as relevant to participants in terms of how they define themselves right now. However, there appears to be an enduring relationship between participants’ identities and the work they have engaged in throughout their lives. Therefore, as these people approach or enter retirement, many are met with tension around the loss of these longstanding roles social networks resulting in identity-related tensions which Canadian society’s emphasis on productivity exasperates.