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16 Unity SUNDAY 24 MARCH 2024 Dr Christian Borg Xuereb Department of Gerontology and Dementia Studies AS individuals progress through the stages of life, the omnipresent reality of mor- tality becomes increasingly pronounced, casting a shadow over the ageing process. Recog- nising and managing this con- cern is not only imperative but also pivotal in fostering a more resilient and fulfilling ageing experience. The ageing process is a mul- tifaceted journey that encom- passes not only physical trans- formations but also profound shifts in an individual's cog- nitive, social, and emotional landscape. One prevalent psy- chological challenge that sur- faces during this phase is death anxiety, defined as the fear and apprehension of death. This existential dread becomes par- ticularly poignant in old age, where the inevitability of one's own mortality or the loss of loved ones looms ever larger, triggering a range of potential emotional responses including anxiety, depression, and exis- tential distress. The psychological ramifica- tions of death anxiety, when left unaddressed, can perme- ate various facets of an older adult's life, negatively impact- ing their mental and emotional well-being. The fear of death may manifest in feelings of de- spair, isolation, and an overall diminished quality of life. To promote better mental health outcomes, it is crucial to un- derstand and acknowledge death anxiety in older adults. Therapeutic interventions emerge as a crucial approach in addressing death anxiety among older persons. These interventions delve into ex- istential concerns and facili- tate open conversations about mortality. Providing a support- ive environment where older individuals can express their fears and anxieties surround- ing death allows mental health professionals to guide them in developing coping mechanisms and cultivating a more positive outlook on the ageing process. Fostering a sense of purpose and meaning in later life is another avenue for mitigat- ing death anxiety. Engaging in activities that bring joy, fulfil- ment, and a sense of accom- plishment can redirect focus away from existential fears. Establishing and maintaining social connections play a vital role in alleviating death anxie- ty, as a robust support network can provide comfort and com- panionship in the face of life's uncertainties. Cultural and spiritual beliefs also play a significant role in addressing death anxiety in old age. Many individuals find sol- ace in their faith and cultural traditions, which offer frame- works for understanding and coping with mortality. Inte- grating these beliefs into ther- apeutic approaches becomes instrumental in providing ho- listic support to older adults as they navigate the psychological challenges associated with age- ing. Furthermore, societal atti- tudes toward ageing and death exert a considerable influence on the well-being of older in- dividuals. The phenomenon of ageism assumes particular significance within the realm of gerontological well-being. Ageism, pervasive societal bias characterised by stereotyping, discrimination, and prejudice based on age, holds significant implications. One notable con- sequence is the marginalisa- tion of older individuals, fos- tering feelings of exclusion and a decline in self-worth. This tendency to view older adults negatively exacerbates death anxiety, reinforcing the notion that ageing inevitably entails decline and societal insignifi- cance. The connection between age- ism and death anxiety is high- lighted by the fear of being neglected by society and the devaluation of an individual's contributions. These factors collectively contribute to an increased sense of existential distress among older individu- als. The psychological burden carried by older adults is am- plified by societal attitudes that perpetuate ageist stereotypes, intensifying concerns about mortality. Recognising the urgency of addressing ageism in the con- text of mitigating death anxiety becomes crucial for promoting the overall wellbeing of older persons. Strategic initiatives aimed at challenging stereo- types and fostering intergen- erational understanding play a pivotal role in reshaping so- cietal attitudes toward ageing. Establishing environments that actively appreciate the wisdom and diverse experiences of old- er adults becomes significant in the collective effort to counter- act ageism. By nurturing a cul- ture that values the multifacet- ed contributions of individuals across the lifespan, these initi- atives contribute to a positive and inclusive societal environ- ment that mitigates age-related biases. In conclusion, the shadows cast by death anxiety in old age have profound implications for the well-being of older adults. Recognising and addressing these concerns through ther- apeutic interventions, social support, a sense of purpose, and consideration of cultural/ spiritual dimensions are essen- tial for promoting resilience and well-being. As we navigate the complexities of ageing, a holistic approach that encom- passes psychological, social, and cultural dimensions is cru- cial in fostering a positive and fulfilling ageing experience. The psychological ramifications of death anxiety, when left unaddressed, can permeate various facets of an older adult's life, negatively impacting their mental and emotional wellbeing The shadows we face: Death anxiety and wellbeing in old age Talking about death Establishing and maintaining social connections play a vital role in alleviating death anxiety, as a robust support network can provide comfort