“When I Am an Old Woman, I Shall Wear Purple”: Red Hatters Cope with Getting Old

ABSTRACT

This ethnographic study examined women's friendships in Red Hat Society (RHS) chapters. Qualitative data included in-depth interviews (n = 25), a focus group interview (n = 7), participant observation, and examination of RHS publications. Results suggest that participation in the RHS (1) aids in developing and enhancing positive attitudes about self and aging that contribute to overall well-being, (2) offers the opportunity to obtain instrumental and emotional support, and (3) provides social connections that prevent feelings of social isolation. Collectively, these findings highlight the potential buffering role of RHS participation in women's lives.

KEYWORDS:

• Aging
• women
• social groups
• leisure
• social support
• well-being
• friendship