Social Exclusion: A Comprehensive Study of Older People

Social exclusion is a multidimensional phenomenon in which individuals are unable to participate fully in economic, social, political and cultural life. The term can also include the process leading to and sustaining such a state. In most societies, people become socially excluded as they age. It is a complex process that limits the access of older people to resources, rights, and goods and services available to the majority of people in a society. Social exclusion is a result of a number of interlinked and mutually reinforcing problems such as poverty, lower levels of educational attainment, unemployment, ill health and poor transport access. The interdisciplinary and policy perspectives on social exclusion of older people seek to reduce the chances of old people becoming socially excluded. It emphasizes on the adoption of strategies and action plans to ensure healthy aging. The main objective of these strategies is to provide an environment in which people can engage in a process of active aging. This book attempts to provide a comprehensive analysis of social exclusion of older adults. It is a complete source of knowledge on the present status of this area of study.