Young University Students’ Perspectives on the Social Image of Old Age

Population aging has become one of the most significant demographic transformations, posing profound social, cultural, and policy challenges. In Chile—particularly in the Bío Bío Region—the increase in the proportion of older adults highlights the urgency of understanding how younger generations perceive aging and old age. Negative stereotypes and ageist attitudes, documented extensively in international and national studies, continue to shape public discourse and hinder the development of inclusive and effective policies for healthy and active aging. This chapter examines the social image of aging from the perspective of university students, recognizing that their attitudes are influenced by personal experiences, social interactions, and cultural representations. As future professionals and key actors in societal transformation, young adults’ perceptions are crucial for fostering intergenerational understanding and promoting a more positive view of later life. The proposed research seeks to design and validate an instrument that measures these perceptions, compares differences across academic disciplines, and assesses the influence of educational exposure to aging-related content. By exploring and proposing dimensions such as personal projection toward one’s own aging, attitudes toward older adults, expectations about an aging society, and perceived professional preparedness, this study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how young people construct meaning around aging. Generating this knowledge may inform strategies that promote empathy, reduce stereotypes, and strengthen intergenerational relationships. Ultimately, this contributes to the development of a more inclusive and humanized vision of aging, recognizing older adults as active, valuable members of society.