Warm-up:
2. Below are several statements about older people. Identify each statement with one major theoretical perspective: Functionalist (F), Conflict Theory (C), Symbolic Interactionist (S).
a. Ageism results in part from an oversupply of labor.
b. Young people are uncomfortable around older people.
c. The stigma attached to aging promotes a low self-concept among older people.
d. Ageism is associated with industrialization.
e. Older people are stereotyped.
f. Ageism exists in part because older workers are inefficient.
3. Of the following which is an accurate statement:
a. Since 1960 the economic situation for the elderly has deteriorated.
b. The poverty rate for Americans over the age of 65 is lower than the official count indicates.
c. Problems of older Americans who are members of racial or ethnic minorities are generally more severe than problems of elderly white.
4. What can older Americans do to increase their impact on government policy and legislation?