Mediala framställningar av åldrande : En tematisk analys av äldre i svensk nyhetsrapportering

Sammanfattning

The purpose of this study is to examine how older people are constructed in Swedish news reporting and which norms surrounding ageing these representations contribute to maintaining. The study is based on a qualitative thematic analysis of 20 news articles published in Dagens Nyheter and SVT Nyheter between 2025 and 2026. The analysis was conducted from a sociological perspective focusing on social construction, ageism, and stigma. The results show that older people are represented through three recurring themes. First, older people are constructed as vulnerable, dependent, and in need of care, particularly in articles concerning elderly care, loneliness, and shortcomings within the welfare system. Second, older people are portrayed as active, independent, and responsible for their own ageing through stories emphasizing physical activity, health, and self-discipline. Third, older people are represented as valuable social resources and carriers of experience, knowledge, and history. The study demonstrates that Swedish news reporting reproduces both negative and positive representations of ageing. At the same time, the analysis highlights how even positive portrayals may create normative ideals regarding what is considered “successful ageing.” The conclusion of the study is that Swedish news reporting reproduces recurring representations and norms regarding older people and ageing.