Aging viewed as a social and historical phenomenon

Aging is increasingly recognized not merely as a biological process, but as a social and historical phenomenon shaped by inequality. In Brazil, discussions highlight that the physical decline often seen in the elderly is frequently the result of lifelong unequal conditions, such as arduous labor and lack of adequate care, rather than just the passage of time.

In Portugal, increased longevity has become a significant social achievement, with life expectancy estimated at 81.75 years for the 2023-2025 period. However, this demographic shift brings challenges, including physical and cognitive decline, loss of autonomy, and the psychological difficulty of adapting to a changing self-image. The transition can be particularly difficult for individuals facing a loss of social status or mobility, often exacerbated by societal beauty standards and the digital exclusion of older populations.