ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book examines the relevance of modern medicine and healthcare in shaping the future lives and situations of elderly people and ageing societies – and vice versa. It provides general philosophical and sociological considerations regarding changing conceptions of ageing, old age, and the life course. The book focuses on specific perspectives and problems of old age, such as physical and psychological potentials and limitations, dementia, end-of-life decision-making, and life extension. It is dedicated to individual provisions and public policies in ageing societies. In the first chapter, sociologist Kai Brauer discusses the practices surrounding advance directives in Germany. The book argues that the attraction of contemporary anti-ageing practices can be traced to symbolic power creating a positive bodily experience and emotional security. It explores contemporary and emerging intergenerational ethics as a framework for anti-ageist practices and the future planning of ageing societies.
