Aging of sex workers: health vulnerability, social support and safeguarding mechanisms in influencing aging outcomes

Purpose This paper aims to build a conceptual framework to consider the consequences of biological and occupational aging of sex workers. It determines the effects of aging on cultural inclusion, perceived dignity, economic security and societal stigma through considering the mediation of health vulnerability and the moderation of safeguarding mechanisms. Design/methodology/approach This paper reviews interdisciplinary literature to develop a theoretically based conceptual framework of aging of sex workers, mediating health vulnerability and aging outcomes. It combines recent theoretical approaches, such as life-course theory, structural vulnerability theory, syndemic theory and precarity theory, to develop a multidimensional framework with a comparative and critical approach. Findings The research indicates that the process of aging of sex workers aggravates the vulnerability of physical, mental and emotional health, which adversely impact dignity, inclusion and economic stability. It also points out that the safeguarding mechanisms including family support, community interventions, policy support and alternative employment are essential in counterbalancing these effects. Good supports would help decrease vulnerability and lack thereof increases marginalization. Originality/value This paper provides a conceptual framework that incorporates the subject of aging sex workers which is underresearched. It contributes to connection between aging, vulnerability to health and structural support, extrapolating the results to the management and social policy settings, and offering a basis to future research.