Aging & Social Change: Eleventh Interdisciplinary Conference

Abstract

The communal kibbutz allows its elderly members unique considerable continuity in employment, housing, social activities, economic security, and excellent health and nursing services. However, in recent years ideological and social changes impacting the kibbutz have reduced this continuity. This study focuses on how the oldest-old (aged 80+) members of a changing-communal kibbutz experience and describe their involvement in work and social activities over time. Methodologically, the information was gathered through participant observations and narrative interviews of 37 kibbutz members in a single kibbutz as a case study. This longitudinal study was conducted in two stages, following the participants to the end of life. The findings show that at the first time point most of the oldest-old do not disengage and continue to work and participate in social activities, presenting an anti-aging self. However hidden from public view one sees their aging, their hurt, their exclusion and pain regarding their place in the kibbutz which is no longer a home. At the second time point, 7 years later, some of the “survivors” do not feel committed to work as in the past, but still participate in social activities and family gatherings. They accept their ageing and are proud to remain active without feeling alienated as previously. Towards the end of life there is a period of loss, with no pride in their survival. Nevertheless, they are involved with their families and wish to die at home and not in a nursing home, which is a threat to their independence and selfhood.