The female aging body: A systematic review of female perspectives on aging,health, and body image |
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Authors: | Erin Cameron Pamela Ward Sue Ann Mandville-Anstey Alyssa Coombs |
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Institution: | 1. Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada;2. Centre for Nursing Studies, Memorial University, St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada;3. Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University, St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada;4. Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University, St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada |
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Abstract: | While most body image research has focused on young female populations, evidence has shown that as few as 12% of older women are satisfied with their body size. Recent studies have also highlighted how anti-aging discourses are promoting unrealistic body norms, which have shown to contribute to poor body image and altered health behaviors. A systematic review of empirical studies focused on older women’s perspectives of health, body image, and the aging body is presented. Findings support that body image is a persistent, lifelong issue for women and should be considered when implementing healthy aging policies and practices. |
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Keywords: | Ageism aging women body image health constructions systematic review |
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