How We Perceive Aging
I recently watched a one-hour PBS program entitled “Sages of Aging,” which originally aired in October 2022. This documentary features 12 experts in the field of aging coming together to discuss the state of aging in America and how we perceive aging. Through an interview format, conducted by Ken Dychtwald, Ph.D., they point out that the geriatric population in this country is the most under-served in terms of medical treatment and remind us of the problem this poses as we face the growing number of adults over 65. By the year 2030, people over the age of 65 will outnumber people who are under the age of 18, and the panel explains that we are not prepared for this demographic shift on a number of levels. Including workforce shortages and a decline in the quality of health care and human service delivery systems.
Along with highlighting the challenges faced when we ignore the aging process, interview participants offer positive notes as they share their personal reflections on aging, and challenge us to frame the aging process in new ways. They ask how our attitudes might change if we talked about ‘longevity’ as opposed to ‘aging.’ The word longevity is more about moving forward in an optimistic direction, whereas aging is often associated with limitation, shutting down, and diminishment. If we continue to frame the aging process based on negative attitudes and stereotypes, it conveys the message that older individuals are no longer valuable or capable, and discourages harmony between generations. The documentary reminds us of the vast amount of wisdom and perspective that is accrued over a lifetime of experience and what older populations can contribute. The interviewer reminds us that our elders are an untapped, under-utilized resource, and rather than treating our senior citizens as invisible and unimportant, how might we access the resources and wisdom contained within this group and channel it for the greater good?
Finally, this PBS program invites all of us who are entering this aging demographic to think about the gift of increased longevity as an opportunity. Research shows that many older adults who enter therapy due to symptoms of depression, or patients who come to doctors with physical complaints, are actually suffering from a lack of meaning in their lives. They feel as though they are not participating or extending their talents toward a new sense of purpose.
“Sages of Aging” is an excellent jumping-off point for discussion, in our families, in our communities, and in our practice. We need to ask each other how we might utilize the gifts and wisdom of our elders to not only extend purpose and meaning to their lives but how those resources might enrich the lives of generations to follow.