General
Engaging Aging - 19:03
From the Editor’s Desk Sister Sherryl White, CSJ, Ph.D.
The word “ageism” first appeared in the Washington Post in 1969. Dr. Robert Butler was remarking on the stereotypical, prejudicial attitudes toward elders evidenced in the opposition that had arisen to a proposed housing project for seniors. A pioneer in the field of gerontology, Butler went on to become the founding director of the National Institute on Aging. While research in the field of aging has expanded, it is clear that the impact of ageism continues in our society. The more we learn, the more problematic the bias becomes. Consider the groundbreaking work of Dr. Becca Levy, who demonstrated that elders with positive beliefs about aging live approximately 7.5 years longer than those with negative attitudes. Conversely, those who have internalized an ageist attitude evidence poorer heart health, physical strength, memory, hearing, and mental health. I think, if we are honest, it’s not always a case of experiencing others’ ageist attitudes toward us. Sometimes, we are the ones perpetuating the covert biases of ageism. On a micro level, have you ever been rebuffed by people when you offered to carry their trays, or adjust their chairs? While the offer was made with the best of intentions, perhaps in simple courtesy, have you ever stopped to ask them why they chose to decline your help? What did your offer stir in them? What moved you to judge that help was needed? Do such small things matter? Cultural shifts begin with individuals. As Sr. Imelda points out, the responsibility is ours. Life is good.