Abstract

This chapter explores some of the important conceptual, theoretical and empirical developments and contributions that have defined social and cultural approaches to geographies of ageing. Referencing key thinkers who have shaped the discipline, we begin by considering the roots of contemporary work in this field to demonstrate what distinguishes it from other sub-fields of geographical gerontology. We continue by focusing on what we view as some particularly strong themes to have emerged within the field, as well as some novel and new areas of work. Reflecting the topology of this area of work, these are thematically organised to include: geographies of embodiment and ageing; geographical approaches to gender, sexuality and ageing; relational geographies of ageing, intergenerationality and the life course; and ageing and environments (including the home and garden, communities, experiences of urban and rural contexts, and processes of migration). We conclude by reflecting on some potential new directions for the sub-field.