How does “disengagement” theory apply to study of the elderly?

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In “disengagement” theory (Havighurst et al. 1963), a crucial factor was considered to be the “functioning” of the individual, which varies along the lifetime. Aging in this view means a separation from the productive social role, having strong implications at the time of retirement, leading to potential marginalization of individuals. Criticism of this theory has also emerged. While, the negative side of retirement may certainly be true in some cases, we have also discussed in previous sections that it may be a very happy and productive period of life for other individuals.

Havighurst, R. J., Neugarten, B. L., & Tobin, S. S. (1964). Disengagement and patterns of aging. Chicago University Press.