...Denise Tanner Purpose The purpose of this paper is to illuminate from the perspective of an older person (Harriet) the factors that support and jeopardise mental well-being in the fourth age. Design/methodology/approach The paper is based on unstructured narrative interviews with an older...

...Chris Gilleard; Paul Higgs Purpose – To better understand the social nature of dementia, it is important to understand its cultural significance and the role that it plays in re-articulating later life. In this new terrain of ageing it may be worth exploring how the idea of the fourth age can...

...Ben Bano; Susan Benbow Over the past few years there has been increasing interest in the importance of spirituality for those in the fourth age of life in care settings. The emphasis on person‐centred approaches has led to recognition of spiritual needs as well as the need for spiritual assessment...

... a symbolic value for this predominantly middle‐class group. It allowed them to ‘buy into’ a third age lifestyle, despite increasing intimations of entering the fourth age. The members used tai chi, not only to improve balance and fitness, but also as a means of achieving a positive self‐image...