Cultural values and traditions determine to a
large extent how a given society views older
people and the ageing process. When societies
are more likely to attribute symptoms of disease
to the ageing process, they are less likely
to provide prevention, early detection and
appropriate treatment services. Culture is a
key factor in whether or not co-residency with
younger generations is the preferred way of
living. For example, in most Asian countries,
the cultural norm is to value extended families
and to live together in multigenerational
households. Cultural factors also influence
health-seeking behaviours. For example, attitudes
toward smoking are gradually changing
in a range of countries.