Aging as a story: An invitation to narrative gerontology

Abstract

This article is aimed at presenting a panorama of the application of the narrative perspective to the study of aging. First, the object of narrative gerontology is defined, which covers two interrelated levels: on one hand, narrative identity in old age and, on the other hand, cultural stories about aging. Second, the main methodologies used in narrative gerontology are described, differentiating between those interested on the content of stories (on what is told) and those interested in the process of elaboration of stories (on how it is told). Finally, we offer some reflections and challenges that narrative gerontology may confront in the future.