Explorations lecture - recent developments in the psychology of ageing
Older people in regional areas play a valuable role in their communities well after
retirement age, Charles Sturt University (CSU) research shows.
Doctor Judith Gullifer, psychology lecturer at CSU, will discuss the results of her research
into the perceptions of ageing at a CSU Explorations public lecture at Orange on Friday.
Dr Gullifer has been researching the experience of ageing of farmers, older women and
men’s friendship groups since 2007. She says that making a contribution through family
or community is important to the sense of identity of older people and provides an
enduring connection with society.
Increased life expectancy and falling fertility rates have contributed to Australia’s ageing
population, and government resources are being poured into helping and encouraging
older people to lead a healthy and active lifestyle.
The number of Australians aged over 65 is expected to double within the next 30 years.
Research in the area of ageing has included the concepts of ‘healthy ageing’, where people
can continue to function in all areas of life as the body slows down, and ‘active ageing’,
which encourages people to take opportunities for physical, social and mental well-being to
achieve their potential.
Dr Gullifer says the research suggests communities must rethink the idea of ageing to
consider not only what the community can offer older people but, more importantly, what
older people can continue to offer the community.
‘Recent developments in the psychology of ageing: older adults’ perceptions of ageing in
Australia’, a CSU Explorations series public lecture, will be presented at CSU Orange (Leeds
Parade) on Friday 1 May from 6pm in Lecture Theatre 3 (room 120, building 1004). Please
RSVP Ms Margot Drake on 6365 7122 or [email protected]
Photo: Dr Judith Gullifer