Subjective and objective dimensions of counselling older adults

Abstract

In European Union countries the social exclusion becomes a very important and actual question. Social exclusion is a leading cause for conflict and insecurity in many parts of the world. It marginalizes community, encourages alienation and disrespect for people with different socio-economic status or from other nations. Nowadays age becomes another factor which influences the discrimination of older adults. Factors that influence exclusion are numerous and diverse. Therefore social exclusion can struck almost any individual. In order to provide older adults with meaningful and productive services, it is of crucial importance to constantly monitor at least two dimensions: (objective) changes in labour market (which are in their own cause conditioned by scientific and technological developments), and (subjective) changes in older person’s life aspirations, which are conditioned by health status, educational and professional background and other variables, including gender. It is very important to attract the seniors to education, to raise their self-esteem, to equip them with the skills that they need in order to cope with change and inspire them to be the active members of today's ever changing society.