Lifestyle and Distinction in Very Old Age: An Analysis of Social Interpretation Patterns and Symbolic Boundaries

Based on the assumption that lifestyles symbolize not only social class but also age, the paper looks at the subjective experience of lifestyle changes in very old age, how it is dealt with them, and the distinctive practices that become visible. Against the background of a deficit-defined fourth age in the public and scientific discourse, social interpretation patterns and symbolic boundaries are analyzed with the help of 18 problem-centered interviews with people aged 80 and older. The results show that lifestyle changes are experienced as a loss. However, in dealing with it an ambivalence becomes apparent. On the one hand, it is tried to counteract very old age and to create continuity with middle age through symbolic demarcation. On the other hand, the experienced is appreciated and the care for next generations is focused.