Pluralities of Old Age: A Study Based on Online Surveys in China and France

This chapter explores cultural perceptions of aging through online surveys conducted in 2022. It examines how old age is constructed and perceived differently in China and France, focusing on symbolic and material aspects of each culture. The surveys reveal that old age is associated with different activities, places, and societal roles in the two countries. Chinese elderly individuals are often seen engaging in social and physical activities like square dancing and tai chi in public spaces, reflecting their integration into community life. In contrast, French elderly are more associated with leisure, cultural consumption, and private activities. The study also highlights how gender influences perceptions of aging, with elderly women generally described more positively than men in terms of appearance and temperament, though they face more societal pressures. This comparative approach underscores the cultural nuances in defining and experiencing old age, illustrating the diverse social constructs that shape the elderly's role in society.