Abstract

Using data from a 2002 representative survey of Flemish 75-year olds (adjusted n=1095), the aim of the present study is to identify the causes of societal malaise. The analysis reveals the great importance of the personal and physical well-being. Secondly, we observe a strong influence of socio-economic variables. The experience with unemployment during the active life-span still induces societal malaise, even at the age of 75. Actual material deprivation, as well as the deprivation experienced during childhood, also contributes to malaise. Furthermore, we notice higher levels of malaise in women and in respondents with a low level of education, even after controlling for economical hardship. This is probably due to their higher vulnerability, resulting from weak educational socialisation and the cultural coding of gender. Neither the media, nor the leisure time activities play a crucial role (this is in sharp contrast to findings concerning younger generations). The malaise of older people is decreased through integration in social networks and, to a lesser extent, active religious involvement.

How to Cite:

Elchardus, M. & De Groof, S., (2005) “Het maatschappelijk onbehagen van Vlaamse 75-jarigen”, Tijdschrift voor Sociologie 26(3), 209–239. doi: https://doi.org/10.21825/sociologos.86635