If, on the other hand, we can realize the full potential of these final chapters, they can become the best ones with benefits to all we touch. These stronger images of aging will allow all of us to tap into the vast experience that resides within this population segment. Indeed, we will find that more of us aspire to reach the status of “Wise Old Elder” within our families and social circles. Infusing dignity and respect for our older years inherently creates healthier, more engaged citizens throughout the entire age spectrum. Perhaps it will be your thoughts and approaches, or that of your parents, that will provide solutions to the issues of tomorrow. What would be possible for you, or your parents, or even your grandparents, if we could separate our thinking from the stereotypes that now suggest that older equals old?
Imagine a Culture:

• That understands that Aging is not a disease. It is a natural stage of life which has particular needs, as do the other stages of life, such as childhood, adolescence, adulthood, etc.
• That sees our aging process as the most profound and deepest of all learning experiences. Our aging offers us clearer views of ourselves and our world as the years continue to mature our perspectives.
• That understands that the gifts of aging are worth seeking and protecting as a society and promote policies and attitudes that are in line with this understanding.
• Where seniors and older citizens continue to contribute their value and achieve their goals well into their 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s.

To create this reality, we first must expose and dismantle the ageist attitudes around us as well as within us. Thus the problem is a two-sided one. Our traditional external environment espouses devaluing opinions of our older citizen, and these, in turn, encourage us to adopt internal images that tend to reduce our future as we age rather than expand it.

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