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This project examines the convergence of demographic and ideological changes associated with the emergence of the third age, and how access to this life phase varies between social groups. This analysis provides a basis for understanding the changing role older adults play in society and how this is moderated by social structural boundaries. Specific research questions include: How did ideological and demographic forces interact to mark the emergence of the third age in the United States? and How does the amount of time spent in the third age vary by social location?The first part of this study uses a trend analysis methodology to understand ideological and demographic forces at play in the emergence of the third age in the United States. Using published secondary data, convergences of demographic trends are mapped and analyzed to identify key shifts relevant to the availability of time and physical and financial capability to engage in society in later life. To examine ideological changes, significant gerontological literature identified by key informants and the underlying assumptions associated with major federal social policies that purport to increase older adults’ available time and capability to remain active in later life were examined. Results suggest that the third age emerged between the mid-1970s and the mid-1980s in the United States. These findings suggest that opportunities, roles and expectations, and the timing of life events are shaped by the ongoing interaction between demographic and ideological forces and are structured and reinforced by social policies.The second part of the study conceptualizes and calculates a measure of the average length of life spent in the third age, by gender, age, and race. This new measure, “third age life expectancy” (TALE), utilizes nationally representative panel data (2005 National Health Interview Survey) and age, race, and gender specific life expectancy data to determine the amount of time spent in the third age. Results indicate that TALE varies by race and gender according to a) the proportion of life expected to be spent in the third age; and b) the timing of entry and exit from the third age. |
