Dickens and His Older People | Ageism Study by Mervyn Eastman

Learn about how Victorian ageism shapes modern social care policy. Dr Mervyn Eastman analyses Dickens’s iconic characters through a literary gerontology lens. Get the book now.

Join the Conversation on Ageing, Care, and Dignity

This community is a space for reflections, questions, shared experience and social responsibility.

Ask a Question or Share a Reflection

We invite readers, carers, and professionals to submit questions or short reflections on adult safeguarding, care systems, or the portrayal of older characters in literature.

Community Guidelines

To maintain a safe, constructive, and respectful space for all participants, please adhere to the following principles when contributing:

1. Strictly avoid sharing confidential case details, full names of third parties, or sensitive personal data to protect the anonymity of those in care.

2. Please note that this platform is not monitored for urgent safeguarding reports; if you have an active concern regarding a person at risk, contact your local authority safeguarding team or emergency services immediately.

3. Engage with others using a professional and empathetic tone, ensuring that all discussions, even when disagreeing on policy, remain courteous and free from personal attacks.

4. Aim to contribute reflections that add value to the broader conversation regarding ageing, dignity, and social responsibility.

5. Refrain from posting promotional content, spam, or advertisements for external services to keep the focus on genuine community engagement.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION

Questions about Dr Mervyn Eastman’s work on literary gerontology, adult safeguarding, dignity in ageing and public engagement.

Mostly Asked

What is Literary Gerontology, and why is it relevant to Social Care today?

Literary Gerontology explores how ageing and older people are portrayed in literature. It helps reveal how cultural attitudes continue to shape perceptions of ageing, dignity and social care today.

How does Dr Eastman’s research impact Adult Safeguarding?

Dr Eastman's research shows how ageist attitudes can influence care practice. Understanding these narratives helps professionals promote more respectful safeguarding.

What does “Dignity in Ageing” look like in practice?

Dignity in ageing means recognising every older person as an individual with rights, choice and purpose. It promotes respect, independence and participation rather than dependence.

Mostly Asked

Can the public engage with Dr Eastman’s work on social reform?

Absolutely. Through LLARC, his writing and public talks, Dr Eastman encourages discussion on ageing, social care and ageism, ensuring older people's voices are heard.