The article chosen to support the argument that more “civil engagement is beneficial for older adults” is titled “Interventions to Reduce Social Isolation and Loneliness among Older People: An Integrative Review” written by Gardiner et al. in 2018. The research article argues in favour of the idea that civic engagement among older adults can link volunteerism in adult age with positive health outcomes in later life. This is due to the roles older adults are encouraged in their routines to play in their social life (Gardiner et al., 2018). By broadening the discussion, the study reveals that civic engagement leads to proxies for aging well, activity engagement for improving health, and the overall quality of life of older adults.
However, the article titled “Satisfaction in Old Age: Activity or Disengagement?” refutes the argument that civic engagement is of any use for older adults in their later life. The article emphasizes that there is a dire need for scrutiny when adults are encouraged to perform their civic roles and responsibilities. It also focuses on the narrow discussions of civic engagement that may lead to excluding those in their later life who face poverty, health challenges, or other barriers (Saha & Zaman, 2021). While civic engagement can be positive, it also poses serious challenges to the health and life of older adults as they aspire to recognize and contribute to the diverse contributions of themselves in society.
In my point of view, civic engagement among older adults in their later life is important as it offers meaningful connections with others in the community that contribute to happiness and companionship as individuals begin to age. Engaged older adults in civic responsibilities and volunteerism are less likely to have cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure, or cognitive impairment as civic engagement provides them opportunities for social interaction. Such social interaction reduces feelings of isolation so they tend to live longer than those who do not engage in civic roles and responsibilities. So, I opine that fostering civic engagement can enhance well-being and create a positive impact on older adults’ lives.
References
Gardiner, C., Geldenhuys, G., & Gott, M. (2018). Interventions to reduce social isolation and loneliness among older people: An integrative review. Health & Social Care in the Community, 26(2), 147–157.
Saha, S. R., & Zaman, A. (2021). Satisfaction in old age: Activity or disengagement? Journal of Sociological Research, 12(1).
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