ABSTRACT
A capabilities approach draws attention to contribution as a valued capability among older people. Exploring the context of contribution reveals the practical barriers older people face to contributing in ways that they value. In general, contribution through formal volunteering provides a way to remain engaged with the community, to enjoy the company of others, and to use the skills developed during one's working life to benefit society. Although the notion of contribution is positive, and volunteering is beneficial for both society and older people, opportunities to volunteer are not equally available to all older people. In addition to financial and health challenges, older people were constrained from contribution by ageing identities which positioned them as no longer having anything relevant to offer others. Ann Robertson's focus is on the notion of interdependence and the ways in which such a broader understanding of community relations would enable us to recognise the real contributions of all citizens to social life.
