‘I’ For Identity: Reflections on Ageing with a Disability

Abstract

One of the first things that should be made clear in respect of this paper is what it is not. It is not a psychological examination of identity formation or maintenance, neither does it relate to growing older and becoming disabled by the effects of ageing. It is also not about reaching a specific age or having a specific disability but is about the process of ageing through some consideration of the variety of roles and identities experienced and negotiated by those living with a disability as they become older. It is a ‘snapshot’ focused on the initial results from doctoral study which, as a ‘work in progress’, may provide additional insights as the thesis nears completion. The initial focus of the thesis was not on identity, however, and a short rehearsal of the methodology used is needed to show why this emergent theme is regarded as important