ABSTRACT
“Medicalization” is a mid-twentieth century phenomenon with enormous consequences for health and social policy. This paper traces the effects of this process on two populations in the United States—those who are aging and those with a disability. While initially perceived of as a process with a liberating influence, it has proved to be much more of a mixed blessing. This paper traces the downside apsects of medicalization in these two groups and suggests areas for change on both a macro (policy and society) and micro (group and individual) level.
