Connecting Gender and Ageing

Challenging the assumption that gender can be treated as static over the life course, this book highlights the differential social effects of ageing on women's and men's roles, relationships and identity. The early chapters address the question of linking gender and age within sociological theory, outlining alternatives and introducing new ideas to integrate these two dimensions of social stratification. Contributors assume a feminist perspective to explore the impact of ageing on gender roles in the workplace and in retirement; in marital and other relationships; in community support networks and in older women's own perceptions. A range of research approaches are used, including qualitative studies giving a voice to women. A concluding chapter draws out the implications of the book. The inclusion of chapters from North America and Europe should make this book accessible to an international readership.