Self-image of elders as non-participatory

The self-image of large numbers of elders is such that they cannot participate in the community or social processes. Elders many times see themselves as spectators, or as insignificant, as having made their contribution to society. A sense of impending death may leave many socially paralysed. Besides, current structures designed for the care of elders often isolate them from society, forcing them to cling to the past, with draw further from society, and lose any sense of having a meaningful role. There is some evidence that environments which are not stimulating encourage the onset of senility.