The social world of dying older men: between autonomy and 'bad deaths'

This chapter examines dominant points of departure and perspectives in social science literature regarding issues of social relations, masculine identities and autonomy among dying older men. The authors argue that these issues are of significance as ageing in contemporary society often means to approach death in a manner where notions of masculinity as well as masculine identities such as being strong, stoic and in control are challenged. Furthermore, notions of ‘good deaths’ in Western societies stipulate the importance of being autonomous and not dying alone. This raises the question of what this means for older men who are dying and experience frailty, disease and increased dependency or who wish to die alone or end their lives. Thus, the chapter highlights the complex tension of, on the one hand, strivings towards ‘good deaths’ through enabling autonomy and upholding masculine identity, while on the other hand facing the loss of control through increased frailty and dependency. Throughout the chapter, the implications these issues have for older men’s social world is discussed.