The future of the growing senior population

It almost escaped my notice that Oct. 1 marked the annual International Day of Older Persons. This is important because ageism, a widely prevalent and prejudicial attitude in many societies, finds expression in attitudes, institutional and policy practices and media representations that devalue and exclude older persons.

This kind of discrimination shapes how older persons are treated and perceived, and creates environments that limit their potential and impact their health and well-being. The current estimate of “older persons” (those who are 65 and up) is 952 million, more than double the same population a few short years ago. It is estimated that figure could almost double again by 2030, when the number of people 60 and above will exceed that of those between 15 to 24.

How society makes plans and operates will be influenced by the fact there will be a preponderance of people who have fewer years to live ahead of them than years in the past. Coincidentally, this past week I attended the TEARS Elder Abuse Conference, where the theme was ageism and its effects.

Most of us think of “abuse” as a physical act against someone, but anything that diminishes a person’s self-worth or denies them opportunities to work or participate is also a form of abuse. Among the many excellent speakers sharing their expertise was Erica Michalowski, of the Connecticut AARP, and Donna Fedus, an outstanding gerontologist and founder of Borrow My Glasses. Donna, in cooperation with AARP CT, has developed a “Disrupt Aging” campaign designed to transform attitudes about aging and change behavior. The speakers were introduced by Beverly Kidder, of the South Central Connecticut Agency On Aging.

I recently learned that Singapore, an island citystate of only 5.5 million, but with a rapidly aging population where, by 2030, one in four residents will be 65 or older, is initiating a plan to help Singaporeans grow older with confidence.

Some of the topics being addressed are health and wellness, education, volunteerism, transportation and social inclusion. They are planning to promote intergeneration harmony and understanding by combining elder housing with child care centers.

Culturally, Singapore has a head start because Confucian beliefs include respect for one’s elders, and children are legally required to assume financial responsibility for their elderly parents, should the need arise.

Our government would do well to develop a comparable blueprint for our country to help solve the many issues facing our aging population; health care, transportation and work opportunities are just a few.

“Believe that life is worth living, and your belief will help create the fact.” — William James

Special note: The excellent and so-needed adult day care center Orchard House is having a “night of comedy fundraiser” at Woodwinds in Branford on Oct. 26. Call 203-481-7110 for tickets.