Abstract
Precariousness, defined as job insecurity and uncertain financial perspectives for retirement, might shape the kind of views that individuals imagine to represent a positive old age. The present study explored and compared positive views on aging in two different categories of middle-aged Germans. Interviews were conducted with middle-aged individuals with secure pension plans (N = 10) and without secure pension plans (N = 10) in order to explore positive views of old age and the differences that emerge depending on the assumed future security. Findings reveal that positive views comprise more than a desire to stay young and that wisdom and social roles such as being a grandparent are still considered desirable in old age. Positive views on aging reflect the ideals of the new aging discourse, with an emphasis on agency, flexibility and engagement, thus placing at risk those who do not manage to fit the standards. They also reflect the current individualistic culture with its strong focus on autonomy in old age. Differences and similarities between social groups are discussed with a view on implications for promoting positive aging.
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