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Driving Miss Daisy: Stereotypes Of Aging

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Abstract This paper explores and analyzes several concepts of aging in the 1989 movie Driving Miss Daisy. Firstly, the sociological impact of the increased population of the elderly is discussed and is quickly followed by the “sandwich generation” theory, which is seen in the movie through Miss Daily’s son. Following this conversation, the unfortunate ageism perspective is defined and compared in a few scenes of the movie. Lastly, the “activity” or “healthy living” theory of aging is reviewed, since Miss Daisy and Hoke are prime examples for this theory healthy aging. Understanding these theories allows individuals to properly understand and care for their elders in a healthy and encouraging approach. Driving Miss Daisy Movie Analysis …show more content…

Fueled by a mixture of fear and prejudice of growing old, ageism results in discrimination (Palmore, 2015). Some examples of ageism would include attributing forgetfulness to an elderly’s age or speaking condescendingly to an elderly person like you would to a child. The stereotype of aging can affect an elderly individual’s health. Although physical and cognitive abilities decline while we age, many psychosocial and sociocultural factors play an important role in this process. According to an article, “Stereotypes of Aging: Their Effects on the Health of Older Adults,” researchers have identified that negative stereotypes like ageism have a direct impact on “physiological function, increased cardiovascular stress and anxiety, skin conductance and high blood pressure.” (Dionigi, 2015) In addition, the majority of elderly people are discouraged to seek medical assistance since ageism actually fuels their own personal fear of aging and dying. Appreciatively, ageism was only slightly present in Driving Miss Daisy. For example, Miss Daisy’s son, Boolie, did not take her personal worries seriously. Moreover, the police officers in the movie disrespectfully showed ageism when Miss Daisy and Hoke inquired why the traffic was not moving (Zanuck, Zanuck, & Beresford, 1989). However, Boolie made an effort to allow his mother to make her own decisions unless, of course, her safety was

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