On the dynamics of the perception of the elderly: Factors of positive changes under demographic aging

The article considers the dynamics of the perception of the elderly in Russia under the ongoing demographic aging and increasing staff shortage. Traditionally, intergenerational relations and the position of the elderly are associated with negative stereotypes, which for a long time have hindered the full integration of older people and the realization of their social-labor potential. Recently, the situation has changed due to the state and the labor market interest in active participation of the elderly. The article aims at identifying changes in the public perception of old age and aging and factors of such changes. The author used a quantitative methodology of the secondary analysis: the data of several all-Russian sociological surveys (2005, 2022, 2023, 2024) was compared. The results show a positive shift in public attitudes towards older generations despite persistent ambivalence. Old age is associated with positive qualities such as wisdom and rich experience. At the same time, there is a noticeable decrease in intergenerational contradictions due to the complex interaction of several factors: on the one hand, there is an increase in the educational level and general activity of the elderly, in their readiness for new forms of participation in social life; on the other hand, there are significant changes in the worldview of the younger generation, for whom “time for oneself” and personal hobbies have become a priority, and young people (especially among the 18-24-year-olds) demonstrate the greatest similarity of views with the 60+ generation, which contributes to mutual sympathies and reduces the intergenerational gap. The discovered trends indicate new opportunities for an effective intergenerational interaction such as mentoring in the professional-business sphere.