Attitudes towards dependence and consumption: a process rooted in past experience

ABSTRACT

It can be challenging for seniors to anticipate the potential effects of ageing despite the promotion of products and services designed to alleviate and/or accompany the loss of autonomy. The aim of the present article is to improve understanding of attitudes towards dependence in the elderly so that support is available and accessible to them in their preparations for the last phase of their lives. The research focuses on individuals in their Third Age – autonomous people whose consumption decisions are not delegated to others- in a Western European context. Findings highlight five attitudes towards dependence that are distinguished by their cognitive, affective or behavioural dimension. Findings also highlight that these attitudes are anchored in the individual’s past and acquired through a process of social learning that takes into account the meaning of the activity to be delegated.

KEYWORDS:

• Dependence
• elderly people
• attitudes
• social learning

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This study is funded by Région BRETAGNE as part of the NUTRICHIC research programme.

Notes on contributors

Margot Dyen

Margot Dyen is a lecturer in management sciences. Her work focuses on food practices and attempts to address issues of well-being, sustainability and health.

Samuel Guillemot

Samuel Guillemot is a lecturer at the University of Brest - France. He is specialised in the study of elderly and vulnerable consumers, and on intergenerational transmission issues

Annick Tamaro

Annick Tamaro is a lecturer in management sciences. Her work focuses on food practices.